Its name evokes a notion of yoga, but its meaning sums up its commitment: “let’s stop single use now” (Auum). Solving an environmental problem while making cleaning fun, here is the challenge taken up by the French start-up based in Bourg-La-Reine.
“Five billion cups are thrown away each year, which constitutes heresy, specifies Clément Houllier, co-founder and CEO. But cleaning remains not very fun today. We wanted to make it more pleasant thanks to an aesthetic machine.”
The start-up has designed a device capable of washing and drying a glass in ten seconds and without the use of chemicals, with only 2 centiliters of water. The company has sourced its components in France and Europe, everything is assembled in the Paris region.
The machine conforms to the shape of the container, before propelling dry steam at 140 degrees, thus ensuring washing and disinfection. Auum rents its equipment 180 euros per month, 24 glasses and maintenance included. “The cost per use is 3 to 4 cents, the equivalent of the price of a paper cup.”
Leading companies already clients
Auum has just raised 1.3 million euros from the Maif Social and Solidarity Investment fund and business angels. This sum made it possible to manufacture the first machines and ensure the sustainability of the company until the end of next year. In January Auum presents this innovation at the CES show in Las Vegas.