Eliza Flanagan, with co-founder Mary McLeod, is on a mission to make refill and reuse mainstream. Low on waste. Big on pleasure.
KANKAN puts soap in cans – making refills fun, convenient and plastic-free. Their vegan, cruelty-free, palm oil-free soap refills come in infinitely recyclable aluminium cans that you can dispense into your reusable container of choice and then recycle with ease. A zero waste circular economy solution that eradicates the need for single-use plastics in the home. And better still, they smell divine! We chat to Eliza about building a brand driven by a passion for change, balancing family and work life, and her top tip for living more sustainably.
What led you to start your business?
It was from a place of desperation - we couldn’t believe how hard it was to find great products that were without compromise truly circular and plastic-free. It has been a mission based business from the get-go, and that is the main driver still for Mary and myself.
What steps have you taken to be more sustainable as a business?
We use the principles of the circular economy as our guide and model in all that we do. From the packaging, products themselves to the manufacturing and planting of a tree, this is our driving decision maker.
How would you describe your day-to-day?
My day to day is pretty different, but parenting is always involved! Running a young biz means being across all areas - financial, brand and marketing, product development and working with our lovely team. It is very diverse but always interesting!
What does home mean to you?
Wherever my family is.
What’s your top tip for living more sustainably?
Follow the money! Divest, then INVEST, and do what you can at home. But the big changes need to be done on a policy level and whatever support you can do (VOTE) to shift that needle, the better.
Name a forever item of clothing or accessory that you couldn't live without?
My engagement ring.
Leave a comment