US giant snaps up drinking straw company just a year after it launches

A Manchester firm which makes paper drinking straws has been snapped up by an American firm looking to move into Europe.

The Paper Straw Co was set up just a year ago in response to the growing demand for environmentally friendly drinking straws.

And the company has now been acquired by the Hoffmaster Group, a leading US manufacturer of disposable tableware.

Hoffmaster also owns Aardvark Straws in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Following the deal The Paper Straw Co is looking to increase its production of its straws in response to the huge demand from clubs and bars.

Manchester co-Founders Geert Pijper and Ilesh Mawji launched the firm just over 12 months ago.

The firm was launched after the UK and the European Union announced a ban on plastic straws by 2021.

Geert Pijper said: “At The Paper Straw Co, we manufacture sturdy paper straws made up of certified raw materials.

“Rather than shipping them thousands of miles away, which would reduce their environmental credentials, we serve local customers in our own backyard.

“Joining Hoffmaster presents excellent opportunities for our business. Hoffmaster’s 75 plus years of experience in the foodservice industry has given them the necessary expertise, equipment and resources to ensure that our customers will continue to receive exceptional service and the highest quality products on the market.”

Andy Romjue, president of Hoffmaster’s Foodservice Division, said: “Hoffmaster also operates Aardvark Straws, the world’s leading paper straw manufacturer based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and its own line of paper straws.

“The Paper Straw Co will remain under the same banner. Pijper and Mawji will continue to run the business, while all employees will continue to work for the company in Manchester.

“This acquisition will provide both Hoffmaster and The Paper Straw Co with the ability to better serve their European customers by increasing the UK’s manufacturing capacity and production of paper straws.

“In order to produce the best quality straws in the UK, Hoffmaster will apply the same methodology that is used for Aardvark Straws, often referred to as the strongest paper straws on the market, to The Paper Straw Co.

“We are thrilled to be working closely with The Paper Straw Co team to progress in our mission to solve our world’s plastic pollution crisis and serve as a reliable supply source for European businesses, restaurants, and venues seeking durable paper straws.

“This acquisition is a strategic and important addition to the portfolio of Hoffmaster brands.

“It expands our global footprint into the UK and also allows us to reach our international customers conveniently while improving our customer service experience.”