KURO-BO is an eco-conscious water filtration brand that utilises the power of activated charcoal with glass containment, in order to provide solutions for cleaner, healthier water. Using an ancient Japanese technique of Binchotan, KURO-BO’s charcoal sticks ensure water is clarified in an ongoing, sustainable process.
Kuro-BO is part of a line-up of sustainable, innovative brands represented by Brands of Style. Brands of Style helps brands navigate international expansion and take them to the next level! Learn more and see how they can help you gain access to the right markets you're looking for.
When was your company formed?
KURO-Bo was established in 2017.
Where are you based? What do you produce?
KURO-Bo is headquartered in Cape Town, South Africa, and we are Africa's leading 100% natural and plastic-free Binchotan charcoal water filter brand.
How many people work for the business?
I am MD and have two people working directly with me in operations. We mainly supply through wholesalers and distributors locally and internationally so have a light central team, and a broad indirect team supporting across finance & audit, marketing, PR, graphic design, web development and social media.
Who do you sell to?
We primarily sell to wholesalers, agents or distributors (SA, UK, Poland, Bulgaria, Australia, Canada) who then sell to the public. We also have a direct sales channel via our website. Our customer profiles are very broad from an age, background and interest perspective. Our customers are predominantly female and generally range from 25 to 65.
Is there a specific product you are particularly proud of and why?
We are particularly proud of our 2L Bamboo Water Filter Jug and our 8L Bamboo Water Filter Dispenser. Our two sizes of glass water filter bottle (550ml and 1L) have been very popular, and we received feedback that customers were also looking for equally beautiful, natural and functional products for larger volumes at home. KURO-Bo now offers the broadest range of plug-and-play waste-free natural water filter solutions globally for all requirements and lifestyles. With KURO-Bo available globally now, customers do not need to compromise on their health or that of the planet. There really is no excuse for still buying single-use plastic bottles.
I am driven every day by the fact that KURO-Bo is genuinely making a difference to this world we live in - for our generation, our children's and many to come - one stick of charcoal at a time. I love the beauty and simplicity of our brand look and feel, and that our mission impacts and inspires, and makes people question and change their consumption patterns and behaviours, and therefore holistic impact. My professional background is in global investor relations and then executive search, so on a personal level working for myself now and building something from scratch is extremely rewarding and energising.
When I am not working, I am a very hands-on and active wife to Darrin and mother to Arlo (6) and Cecily (4). We love to travel and have a real passion for cooking and food. I also personally enjoy entertaining, theatre, art and running, and am currently training for my first half marathon.
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