TDF Talks With KeepCup Co-Founder Abigail Forsyth
Podcast
KeepCup’s Managing Director Abigail Forsyth. Photo – Amelia Stanwix for The Design Files.
KeepCup grew from 45 to 90 staff in 2018. Photo – Amelia Stanwix for The Design Files.
Members of the KeepCup team. Though the business began in 2007, it was another two years before the product hit the market, during which time they invested in hiring external expertise. Photo – Amelia Stanwix for The Design Files.
KeepCups in various models and vibrant colourways. Photo – Amelia Stanwix for The Design Files.
After originally pursuing a career in law, Abigail Forsyth created the first KeepCup with her brother, Jamie, back in 2007. It’s hard to believe it now, but at the time, there was very little awareness around waste, and the problems with disposable packaging. And it certainly wasn’t a common sight to see anyone take a re-usable coffee cup to their local café. How things have changed!
This humble little Australian-designed product has had a profound effect on the world (I don’t get to say that as often as I would like!), so today we delve into the backstory behind it all, and where Abigail has her sights set next!
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Notes + Links
Abigail Forsyth is a judge for the Sustainable Design category of our just-announced TDF Design Awards!
Our Small Business columnist Fiona Killackey spoke to Abigail about the value of investing in external consultants in 2018 – lots of tips and inspiration here.
Find out more about KeepCup and their product range on their website and follow on Instagram @keepcup.
The last thing Abigail purchased online was this, all-natural plastic free replacement for toothpaste! (we’re intrigued!)
This is our 27th TDF Talks podcast, check all the others out here.