Ever stood in line at a festival or sat on a hot commuter train, aching for a cool shower? Or, like us, are you one of 7M Carers (www.carerstrust.org), in the UK trying to keep loved ones fresh and safe? Not all of us can shower easily and sometimes we’re not in a place where traditional washing options are even available. To the best of our knowledge, there are no adult specific waterless washing solutions available in everyday retailers.
We know that consumers search for specialist products online or use wholly inadequate substitutes such as baby wipes, so we’ve developed EQUIP®, a waterless wash range for people with busy and active lifestyles, and to assist independent living. Available where consumers usually shop – because together, we have many years experience developing brands and getting distinctive products onto retailers’ shelves.
What is EQUIP?
EQUIP® is a range of large pre-moistened wipes, wash mitts, protective wipes and a shampoo cap; all designed for any waterless situation. From feeling fresh again in a crowded tent at a music festival or on a train, to caring for young children and relatives, EQUIP® waterless wash solutions are designed to be portable and reliable.
We wanted a tight range of products which delivered a ‘get clean anywhere’ experience. Size and formulation were critical – bigger than baby wipes, bespoke ingredients such as aloe vera, organic karanja nut and Canadian willow herb, and definitely no baby butt scent! Mitts to get to hard to reach places and for times when skin to skin contact isn’t desirable. The hair? A hair cap impregnated with shampoo and conditioner, which doesn’t need any water. The name and the packaging design had to be contemporary, credible and have wide appeal. We worked extensively over two years with two UK manufacturers to create four distinctive products – Oversized Wipes, Protective Wipes, Shampoo Cap and Wash Mitts.
Where is EQUIP available?
In less than 12 months, EQUIP® products are on sale in 1,050 stores: Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Boots, and in discussions for a further 300 stores in January 2016 with a leading beauty retailer. These major retailers account for 64% of the total personal care market, valued at £6Bn (Source: Kantar Worldpanel 52 w/e 20 July 2014). The range is also available via Amazon and may be purchased direct from our web shop.
How is EQUIP funded currently?
The EQUIP® brand was co founded by: Bryn Scadeng, Angela Fitzpatrick and Ian Meadows. Waterless Hygiene Ltd was formed to market EQUIP® with the three co founders as the equal and only shareholders. Our first sale was to Sainsbury on 5th July 2014.
To date the business has been exclusively funded by loans from the three shareholders. This has financed the development of the product, packaging and brand, in addition to the purchase of stock. Sales invoices to major customers are factored to improve cashflow.
How will we use the investment?
EQUIP® has big plans for 2016 and is looking for £75,000 investment to help develop the brand to its full potential. We will use this investment to fund working capital for our new products, including a sibling range targeted at Carers exclusively, increased distribution, create supply chain efficiencies, invest in trade marketing and use PR to drive sales.