As a male partner in a female-focused company, how do you build trust and convince women that menstrual cups can be a better alternative to traditional products?
I’ve been doing this for over 10 years, and I believe my genuine passion for the problem we are solving—and for the product itself—has been key. Interestingly, I’ve rarely been asked this question. The product speaks for itself.
Sustainability is clearly at the core of Lunette’s mission. What are the biggest challenges—and opportunities—you see in building a truly responsible brand in today’s market?
We have a strong advantage in that our core product is a game changer for sustainability. A single cup can be reused for up to 10 years, replacing tens of thousands of disposable pads or tampons.
We’ve also made sure to be a non-plastic company in terms of packaging, and we are constantly reviewing our supply chain and internal processes.
One of our biggest challenges is staying true to our ethical production in Finland, even though it is more expensive, and standing up against “copycats” producing in lower-cost countries. However, with our promise to donate one cup for every one sold, we need to be able to look that girl in the eye and guarantee the highest possible quality—without taking any shortcuts.
Through The Cup Foundation, Lunette is tackling period poverty worldwide. Can you share a moment or impact story that has been particularly meaningful to you?
We started this work over 10 years ago, and we are now hearing stories from girls who were able to stay in school and graduate. That means they have a fairer shot at life and can live more independently.
We also know that for every girl who can rely on a menstrual cup, there is less pressure to find money for period care each month. And importantly, girls who stay in school are less vulnerable to child marriage.
Looking ahead, what is your vision for the future of menstrual health, and how do you see Lunette contributing to a more equal and sustainable world?
One of the most effective ways to reduce poverty is to invest in women. We believe access to safe period care is a human right. It is well proven that when girls can finish school, they become less dependent and are more likely to grow into the changemakers the world needs.
With a growing global population, it is natural—and necessary—that we all reassess our habits and consider how we can contribute to a more sustainable planet. Menstrual cups are better for your body, save money, and significantly reduce waste, so the choice should be straightforward.
Real change will come when the large multinational companies—who have long benefited from a model where women need to purchase disposable products every month—begin to shift. This is a US$72 billion industry.
I often compare this to our historical dependence on oil. Electric car technology existed for decades before Tesla proved it could be not only viable, but desirable. Now, all major car brands are moving toward electric, and even Volvo is planning to phase out petrol-driven cars.
We need a similar revolution in period care.
Where can people in the UAE currently find and purchase Lunette products locally or online?
We are currently in the process of restructuring our distribution in the UAE and the wider region. Soon, our products will be available through our own webstore, lunette.ae, and on Amazon.ae.
In the meantime, some products should still be available at Boots and Life pharmacies (for example, in Dubai Mall).
