Sometimes, the best ideas are born from necessity. For Simon Griffiths, the founder of Who Gives A Crap, that necessity just happened to be toilet paper. In 2010, Simon learned a staggering fact: over 2 billion people globally lacked access to basic sanitation. This sparked something in him – a determination to create a business that would not only sell a quality product but also improve the world.
Who Gives A Crap officially launched in July 2012, armed with a mission and some seriously quirky branding. Their idea was daring: sell eco-friendly toilet paper, tissues, and paper towels, and donate a whopping 50% of their profits to sanitation projects. But they needed funding.
Undeterred by conventional methods, Simon resorted to an unusual crowdfunding tactic. He sat on a toilet in a warehouse for 50 hours straight, refusing to leave until they raised the initial $50,000. This unorthodox campaign worked. It captured the media’s attention and showcased the company’s playful spirit.
The first deliveries of Who Gives A Crap rolled out in March 2013. Since then, the company’s growth has been nothing short of remarkable. Here’s how they’re making a global impact:
Who Gives A Crap is more than just a feel-good purchase. They’re a force for change, proving that businesses can be profitable and purpose-driven. Most importantly, they’re providing clean water, sanitation, and hygiene education to communities in need, improving countless lives.
The next time you reach for a roll of toilet paper, consider Who Gives A Crap. With ambitious goals to expand their product range and reach even more countries, their mission for positive change is far from over. It’s a choice that supports a company proving doing good and doing well can go hand in hand.
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