1. Q: The suspect the bamboo dinnerware market in hospitality (like all tabletop) is incredibly competitive, where do you see it going and why?
A: There are several companies that compete with bamboo or similar dinnerware products, but nobody with a product like ours, especially our BambooWare reusable product. We believe we are leading the market with this type of product because of its sustainability, the fact that it is dishwasher friendly, biodegradable, and is versatile in so many other ways.
2. Q: How can operators best use your bamboo dinnerware in their operations?
A: Our disposable Bamboo Studio product is made from the sheath of the bamboo and is not pulped or processed, making it non-porous and very stackable due to its uniform shape and look. In fact, it stacks nearly like china. The fact that it’s non-porous allows us to have bowls, ramekins, and other serving items that most companies do not, so we give them maximum flexibility in their menus and serving. Aesthetically, we feel we have a better look than other disposable options for that mid-upscale event where you don’t want to – or can’t – use permanent dinnerware…plus, since we’re so eco-friendly, we meet all their “green” goals, as well.
Our BambooWare reusable product is a fantastic product for people looking for the “greatest green story ever” and something that meets both their economic and their sustainability goals. The fact that it’s both reusable and extremely break resistant makes it a good alternative where breakage is a concern. We’ve gotten a lot of interest from institutions who are trying to be both practical…and environmentally sensitive. Colleges, upscale hotels have been interested, for instance, for use in their banqueting, catering, and outdoor areas such as pools and patios.
A: Our disposable Bamboo Studio line is made from the sheath of the bamboo plant instead of processing or pulping the bamboo. The result gives us a consistent shape for stacking and also makes it non-porous, allowing us to make bowls and other serving pieces which other companies don’t have.
Our upscale, reusable BambooWare is an incredible product with a wide range of serving bowls and accessories that we can make in different colors. It’s FDA approved, can withstand the toughest industrial dishwashers, and can even be logoed or crested with soy-based decoration.
Both our product lines have great eco-friendly stories and, of course, are biodegradable, unlike melamine, plastic, and others. 
A: While our Bamboo Studio line is slightly more expensive than cheaper paper plates, but the extra cost to caterers and hoteliers to offer something unique and as sustainable and eco-friendly as bamboo is worth it in most cases. Our reusable BambooWare is comparable or below melamine products and with plastic being a petroleum-based product, we continue to be at or below the pricing levels of the upper end plastic products. Our customers truly appreciate the fact that we are an organic, sustainable product that immediately begins biodegrading when it eventually is disposed of, unlike the alternative products. 5. Q: Bamboo Studio seems to have a full line of bamboo dinnerware, serveware, drinkware, and accessories. Where can hospitality customers buy Bamboo Studio products?
A: Currently Edward Don, Sysco, US Foods and some regional paper companies are carrying the products. One of our big plusses is our wide range of items that we have available in both the Bamboo Studio line and BambooWare. We are adding regional dealers, along with a sales organization to support them. With the large number of leads being generated by every trade show we go to, we know it’s just a matter of time. 
You can view the entire range of Bamboo Studio products, by going here: http://ecobambooware.com/index.html
And, also….be sure to check out our other article about Bamboo Studio by clicking here:
http://www.tabletopjournal.com/1/post/2012/04/bamboo-studio-bambooware-perfect-harmony-between-eco-friendly-and-commercial-practicality.html
