In this episode, Lindy Hughson, Managing Editor & Publisher of PKN Packaging News talks to Joanne Howarth, founder and CEO of Planet Protector Group, about the company’s goals to scale up current manufacturing operations for its sustainable multiple award-winning Woolpack insulated packaging solution, create a vertically integrated operation on shore, and expand to other markets.

We start off by discussing how Planet Protector spent 15 months closing a $12m Series A capital raise, with challenges including current market conditions and the market's lack of support for female founders. Joanne gives us an insight into the investors, the company’s intentions to expand into South East Asia, and the collaboration from the Victorian State Government. We also do a deep dive into how Woolpack is recovering waste wool from going to landfill, what makes wool such an effective insulator, and the timeline for the new manufacturing facility to come on stream in Altona North, Victoria.

The discussion also explores the level of involvement of the investors, the importance of value aligned investors, and Planet Protector’s ambitions to expand to India. Joanne gives us a detailed overview of the company’s intentions in India to establish a pilot facility to, in part, supply a large retailer who faces $5bn in wastage due to not having refrigerated transport. We also review other fibres that Planet Protector is investigating for packaging and insulation solutions and reducing landfill. We wrap up by getting some valuable tips for those interested in starting a business with revolutionary ideas.

Links:

Sponsor: Trimatt Engineering & Integrated Systems

www.trimatt.com/ - (03) 8761 6171 - [email protected] 

Planet Protector raises $12m from impact investors

www.packagingnews.com.au/latest/planet-protector-raises-12m-from-impact-investors

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The PKN Podcast is produced by Southern Skies Media on behalf of PKN Packaging News, owned and published by Yaffa Media.

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If you wish to use any of this podcast’s audio, please contact PKN Packaging News via their website www.packagingnews.com.au or send an email to [email protected].

MC: Grant McHerron

Host: Lindy Hughson

Producer: Steve Visscher

Editor: Chris Visscher

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