Sophia Peterson, Founder of Phia Care
"I wanted to start in Europe because it’s a good market for our product.
I came to Groningen via a startup visa and linked up with a facilitator that focuses on healthcare and sustainability. It was a good fit."
Phia Care is a sustainable menstrual product startup committed to making innovative eco-friendly products. The idea for Phia Cup came while the founder, Sophia Peterson, was studying abroad in Budapest and was introduced to menstrual cups through a friend.
She came to Groningen in 2021 to launch Phia Care in Europe.
What's your start up all about?
Phia is a sustainable menstrual product company. Our first product, Phia Cup, is a modern version of the menstrual cup. Eventually, we’re going to sell more products related to the women’s cycle.
What is your connection to Groningen?
I came here to launch Phia in Europe. I wanted to start in Europe because it’s a good market for our product. I came here via the startup visa and linked up with a facilitator that focuses on healthcare and sustainability. It was a good fit.
How did you overcome your biggest challenge?
It’s all about taking things one step at a time. You will inevitably run into problems, but you just have to fix it or pivot. That’s what I’ve always done. When I encounter a problem along the way, I figure out a solution, and then I keep moving forward.
Do lots of testing! Find loads of testers, do surveys, figure out what your customers want in your target group. I tested Phia with over 100 women. Through this I figured out ways to improve the design. Ultimately, the product’s quality and innovative features are the most important things. Focus on making a really good product.
This article was originally published The Northern Times. Article and interview by Christoph Schwaiger.
