Introduction
HiBar is not just another beauty brand; it’s a mission-driven company committed to revolutionizing how we approach personal care by eliminating plastic waste while delivering salon-quality results.
The Origins of HiBar
HiBar was founded by individuals passionate about both beauty and the environment. Confronted with the alarming amount of plastic waste generated by traditional shampoo and conditioner bottles, they sought an alternative that wouldn’t compromise on quality or sustainability.
Nora Schaper started HiBar from her basement in Minnesota. Now, the brand is in over 10,000 stores across America, selling salon-quality plastic-free shampoos, plus a few new additions like a plastic-free face wash and deodorant. Schaper, alongside her husband Jay and co-founders Dion Hughes and Ward Johnson, ventured into bar shampoos with the goal of reducing plastic packaging in personal care products. Read a Q&A with co-founder of HiBar, Nora Schaper in this article by Cosmo PR of North America.
HiBar’s Values
At the heart of HiBar is a commitment to sustainability. The company prides itself on ethical sourcing, cruelty-free products, and social responsibility. This dedication extends to their packaging, which is entirely plastic-free and made with sustainable materials.
Product Lineup
HiBar offers a diverse range of products that cater to various hair and skin needs. Their flagship items include shampoo and conditioner bars, face wash bars, and deodorants.
Each product is designed to deliver high-performance results without the environmental cost of traditional packaging. For instance, their Curl Shampoo & Conditioner Set and Moisturize Shampoo & Conditioner Set have garnered positive reviews for their effectiveness and eco-friendliness.
HiBar’s Innovative Approach
HiBar believes in thinking outside the bottle. Traditional shampoos and conditioners are roughly 80% water, which necessitates the use of plastic bottles. HiBar eliminates the water, resulting in products that are highly concentrated, perform better, and last longer. Additionally, HiBar’s packaging is made entirely from paper and printed with vegetable-based ink, ensuring it can be recycled or composted.
HiBar’s innovative approach extends to their shipping methods. No bubble wrap, no plastic tape, and their pallets are finished with compostable wrap. This commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of their packaging and shipping process.
Impact on the Beauty Industry
Since 2018, the company has eliminated nearly 5 million plastic bottles and saved over 800,000 gallons of water. Their innovative approach and commitment to eco-friendly practices have inspired other brands to follow suit, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
Market Expansion and Retail Success
Initially, the plan was to go through salons, but due to challenges in finding a centralized distribution model, HiBar turned to direct-to-consumer marketing, focusing on online sales. Their big break came when a Whole Foods buyer called to carry HiBar in Midwest stores. This led to further expansion across the country, and today, HiBar is in over 10,000 stores.
The company’s visibility increased further when Schaper presented the shampoos at an event organized by outdoor retailer REI. Through that summit, HiBar connected with a Whole Foods buyer in the Pacific Northwest, securing two regional markets within a year. This national visibility helped them garner more business beyond Whole Foods, expanding their reach to various stores, including independent stores and zero-waste shops.
Adapting to Consumer Needs and Preferences
HiBar’s products are designed to cater to a wide audience, Schaper knew that the products needed to work for everyone, and the focus was on creating high-quality, effective beauty products that could appeal to both men and women.
The company’s latest product, a plastic-free face wash, builds on this inclusivity. It’s a first-of-its-kind face wash made from luxurious ingredients that provide a spa-like experience. Educating retailers and consumers about this innovative product is part of HiBar’s ongoing challenge, but it is one they embrace wholeheartedly.
Takeaway
HiBar exemplifies what it means to be a brand with a mission. By prioritizing sustainability without compromising on quality, they have created a line of beauty products that benefit both the user and the planet. Supporting HiBar means committing to a future where beauty and environmental responsibility go hand in hand.
FAQs
How do I use HiBar shampoo and conditioner bars?
Simply wet your hair and the bar, then rub the bar between your hands to create a lather or directly onto your hair. Massage the lather into your hair and scalp, then rinse thoroughly.
How should I store HiBar products?
Store HiBar products in a dry place, ideally on a soap dish that allows for drainage, to extend their lifespan.
Are HiBar products suitable for all hair types?
Yes, HiBar offers a range of products tailored to different hair types, including curly, dry, and normal hair.
Where can I buy HiBar products?
HiBar products are available in over 10,000 stores across America, including Whole Foods and various independent and zero-waste shops. You can also purchase them directly from HiBar’s website.
Featured Image Credit: Kare 11
