New to the Australian coffee scene but backed by years of experience, Pakchain is setting out to change how local businesses approach sustainable packaging.
Launched in February 2024, Pakchain specialises in environmentally conscious solutions tailored for cafés, hospitality venues, and small businesses that don’t want to compromise on functionality or style.
At its core, it provides compostable and recyclable packaging solutions for the modern hospitality sector. Among its most popular products is its Single Wall and Double Wall coffee cups, which are designed to suit a wide range of customers from eco-minded café owners to budget-conscious operators.
While Pakchain is a new name in the Australian scene, its Founders Paul and Christine Rayner bring expansive knowledge from their time operating Vegware Australia. Leveraging that expertise, they launched Pakchain to create what they describe as a more adaptable offering for the local market.
“With our experience from Vegware, we were able to introduce more products better suited for Australian businesses,” says Paul.
Their decision to launch Pakchain stemmed from a growing environmental awareness among consumers and business owners alike.
Their approach prioritises both sustainability and practicality. One of Pakchain’s strengths is its commitment to offering products that are either recyclable or home compostable, with a large portion of its range meeting Australian standards for compostability. For cafés and businesses trying to reduce their environmental footprint, these certifications offer reassurance.
“Our main point of difference is that our products are either compostable or recyclable,” Paul says.
The company’s Single Wall and Double Wall cups are designed for maximum insulation to deliver quality and performance for hot beverages. Paul says the Double Wall variety is praised for its heat retention, while both styles feature plastic-free, aqueous lining and are available in multiple sizes.
“Everyone is raving about the quality,” says Paul. “They’ve got fantastic insulation, a great lid fit, and the feedback’s been exceptional.”
Despite the interest in sustainability, Pakchain recognises not all businesses are ready or able to shift completely to eco-friendly materials. As such, the company also stocks traditional PE (polyethylene) lined cups to cater to the economic realities of smaller operations.
“In states where PE lined cups are not banned, the industry still wants plastic cups as they are cheaper for small cafés or businesses,” says Paul. “We’re here to help as we understand how tough running a business can be.”
The balance between affordability and environmental responsibility is a cornerstone of Pakchain’s business model. Its product range spans various price points to support businesses of all sizes and philosophies, whether they prioritise budget, sustainability, or both.
What’s more, its offerings go beyond just packaging. The company has carved out a niche by specialising in custom print and branding, designed for roasters and cafés looking to make their packaging stand out.
“Coffee roasters love it,” says Paul. “We print their custom cups, warehouse them, and they can draw on that stock weekly as needed. It’s efficient and supports their branding and operations.”
This personalised service helps small businesses present a cohesive, professional image without the burden of managing large inventories. Paul says Pakchain’s fast lead times – often delivering the next day – further add to its appeal.
Education is also a priority for the company. Its website is a hub of resources, with information outlining each product’s materials, finishes, and end-of-life disposal.
“Customers know exactly what they’re buying and how to responsibly dispose of it. Our website has all the information they could need,” says Paul. “From materials to composting standards, we make everything transparent.”
As sustainability becomes a growing concern in Australia’s hospitality sector, Pakchain is helping lead the transition – one cup at a time. Through a blend of eco-conscious innovation, practical solutions, and brand customisation, the team are dedicated to proving responsible packaging doesn’t have to come at the cost of style or service.
“We’re here to help,” Paul says. “And there’s a product for every kind of hospitality need or customer.”
For more information, visit pakchain.com.au
This article appears in the August 2025 edition of BeanScene. Subscribe HERE.
