About Us | Eco-Friendly Picnic Tableware

About Hiqagu

Since 2015, we have been supplying compostable tableware made from renewable plant materials. Our products serve outdoor events, catering companies, and families across the United Kingdom.

Our Beginning

Hiqagu started in a small warehouse in East London when three friends noticed the amount of plastic waste generated at summer festivals. They researched alternatives and discovered bagasse - a byproduct of sugarcane processing that can be pressed into sturdy plates and bowls.

The first order consisted of 5,000 plates delivered to a music festival in Brighton. Festival organizers reported that the tableware performed well throughout the weekend and composted within 12 weeks. This practical result led to more orders from event planners and catering services.

Hiqagu warehouse with eco-friendly disposable tableware

What We Do

We source tableware manufactured from bagasse, bamboo fiber, and palm leaves. These materials break down naturally without leaving microplastics. Our product range includes plates in three sizes, bowls, cups, and cutlery sets.

Each item meets EN 13432 certification standards for industrial composting. We work with 47 catering companies and supply products to parks, corporate events, and private celebrations throughout London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Bristol.

Our warehouse in Richmond Road stocks inventory for next-day delivery within Greater London. Orders to other UK regions typically arrive within 2-3 business days through our logistics partners.

Compostable plates and cutlery for outdoor dining

Over 2.3 million pieces of compostable tableware delivered since 2015, preventing approximately 18 tonnes of plastic waste from entering landfills.

Our Principles

We operate on straightforward principles that guide product selection and customer service.

Material Transparency

Every product listing specifies the exact material composition, manufacturing location, and composting timeframe. We provide certification documents upon request.

Practical Testing

Before adding any item to our catalog, we test it with hot liquids, oily foods, and typical outdoor conditions. Products that leak, bend excessively, or break easily are not stocked.

Clear Communication

Our team responds to inquiries within 4 business hours during office days. We explain composting requirements honestly and help customers choose appropriate quantities for their events.

Looking Forward

We continue expanding our supplier network to include manufacturers using agricultural waste from UK farms. Current trials involve wheat straw plates and oat husk bowls produced in Yorkshire.

Our warehouse team is testing new packaging methods to reduce cardboard use in bulk orders. We aim to cut packaging materials by 30% before the end of 2025 while maintaining product protection during transport.

Our Work

From intimate garden parties to large outdoor festivals, we supply biodegradable tableware that performs flawlessly while caring for the environment. Browse our recent projects across the UK.

Events

Richmond Park Summer Picnic

We provided 800 sets of bamboo plates, palm leaf bowls, and wooden cutlery for a community gathering. All items were composted on-site within 12 weeks, leaving zero waste behind. The organisers praised the durability during serving and the clean disposal process.

Corporate

Tech Company Team Building

A London-based software firm ordered 500 compostable lunch boxes with matching cups for their outdoor team event. The packaging featured their logo printed with soy-based ink. Staff appreciated the sturdy construction and the company met their sustainability targets for the quarter.

Festivals

Brighton Music Festival

For a three-day outdoor music event, we supplied 5,000 sugarcane plates and wheat straw cutlery sets. The festival achieved 95% waste diversion from landfill. Vendors reported no breakage issues even with hot food, and attendees valued the commitment to reducing plastic.

Events

Hampstead Heath Wedding

A couple chose our elegant palm leaf plates and birchwood forks for their 150-guest outdoor ceremony. The natural texture complemented their rustic theme while maintaining a refined appearance. Post-event, all tableware was collected for industrial composting through our partner facility.

Corporate

University Open Day Catering

A Cambridge university ordered 1,200 biodegradable lunch trays and cups for their annual open day. The procurement team specifically requested certified compostable materials to align with campus environmental policies. Students and parents noted the quality exceeded typical disposable options.

Festivals

Lake District Food Fair

We equipped 30 food stalls with cornstarch bowls, bagasse plates, and PLA-coated paper cups for a weekend fair. The organisers established dedicated composting bins, and 87% of our products were properly diverted. Stallholders found the items held up well in unpredictable weather conditions.

Why Choose Hiqagu

Benefits of Our Disposable Tableware

Our products combine environmental responsibility with practical functionality, making outdoor dining simple and sustainable.

100% Biodegradable Materials

Made from plant-based fibres including bamboo, sugarcane bagasse, and palm leaves. These materials decompose naturally within 90 days in composting conditions, leaving no harmful residues. Certified compostable according to EN 13432 standards, ensuring genuine environmental benefits.

Water and Grease Resistant

Natural coating technology provides excellent resistance to liquids and oils without plastic lining. Plates and bowls hold hot soups, sauces, and oily foods for up to 3 hours without leaking or softening. Suitable for both cold salads and warm dishes straight from the barbecue.

Heat Tolerance Up to 120°C

Withstands high temperatures without warping or releasing chemicals. Safe for microwave reheating and can hold freshly grilled food. The sturdy construction maintains shape and integrity even with hot contents, providing reliable performance throughout your meal.

Food-Safe Certification

All products meet UK and EU food contact regulations. Free from BPA, PFAS, and other harmful chemicals commonly found in conventional disposables. Regular testing by independent laboratories ensures consistent safety standards. Suitable for direct contact with all food types including acidic items.

Compact Storage Design

Stackable design saves space in your car boot or storage cupboard. Lightweight construction reduces transport weight by 40% compared to traditional disposables. Nested packaging means a set for 20 people fits in a standard carrier bag, making them ideal for camping trips and park picnics.

Cost-Effective Bulk Options

Competitive pricing with discounts on larger orders. Packages start from sets of 25 pieces, with bulk options up to 500 pieces offering savings of up to 30%. Direct supply chain eliminates middleman costs, providing quality products at reasonable prices for both occasional users and regular event organisers.

Fast UK Delivery

Orders dispatched within 24 hours on working days. Standard delivery across England, Scotland, and Wales takes 2-3 business days. Express next-day options available for urgent requirements. All items packaged securely in recyclable cardboard boxes to prevent damage during transit.