How did coconut waste from Kerala turn into a global business?
This is the story of Thenga Coco, founded by Maria Kuriakose, who saw opportunity where others saw waste.
In 2019, Maria noticed thousands of coconut shells being discarded or burned as fuel. By reviving traditional craftsmanship from Kerala’s Vishwakarma community, she transformed these shells into premium products like bowls, cups, and eco-friendly tableware.
Instead of targeting the Indian mass market, Thenga Coco smartly tapped into global trends like smoothie bowls and sustainable living. With aesthetic finishes and smart positioning, the brand expanded into categories like gifting, gardening, and lifestyle products.
Today, 60–70% of its sales come from international markets, making it a rising name in sustainable exports from India.
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