Composting and garden fertilisation system Subpod is preparing to expand its global operations after reaching the milestone of having already helped nearly 60,000 customers in 26 countries to date.
From its humble beginnings in a warehouse in the Byron industrial estate, Subpod has made its presence felt in the market thanks to its original and innovative three-in-one compost system, worm farm, and garden seat that had made it possible for many people to have access to composting.
Unlike other composting systems, Subpod has designed their composting bin to sit 90 per cent below the soil level so the compost worms that live inside can come and go freely, nourishing the soil directly and create a ‘growth hub’ within the garden which helps build soil fertility and plant health which in turn helps the growth of nutrient-dense food at home.
Subpod has since expanded its product line, including a mini-version of the system, as well as a range of garden beds, grow bags, and planters to ensure everyone has access to a sustainable food waste solution. The modular product range has proven incredibly popular for those living in areas with limited spaces that prevent them from setting up large composting systems or gardens.
To date, Subpod has earned $16.4 million in revenue since the launch of its original compost system, which has seen a repeat order rate of 30 per cent, alongside a substantial growth in its customer base. During their first year of full stock production, SubPod generated $6 million in profit, and the brand’s profitability has grown by as much as 214 per cent in a 12-month period. It has also helped prevent over 14,500 tonnes of CO2 from reaching the atmosphere annually, alongside having enabled an annual production of nearly 2.6 tonnes of earth-enriching compost.
The international expansion will allow Subpod to meet the needs of 166 million households globally. The start-up is also looking to improve its app-integrated gardening and education approach, launch a recycled plastic Subpod (set to hit the market in Dec 22), and establish a physical presence through its new headquarters in the Byron Bay Hinterland.
“At Subpod we believe in the appreciation for, and understanding of, the natural systems that all life depend on must become part of popular culture in the coming decades,” Saaid Allan, CEO of Subpod, said. “That is why we do the work we do, to help people of all walks of life divert waste, rebuild soil, grow food and grow community. That means making the means of repurposing food waste available to everyone, regardless of their home set-up or living situation.”
