The Most Versatile Bento-Style Lunchbox

reVessel's October Kickstarter Updates
almost 4 years ago – Tue, Oct 20, 2020 at 02:29:35 AM

Hello Backers -

Are you getting your kitchen cupboards ready for the newest addition coming soon? Your food prep, pack, store and cook companion is slated to begin shipping in less than two months. We know just how long you've waited and we're equally as excited to cross the finish line.  

Last Chance - Rewards Unlocked for 48 hours only - 10/19-10/21

Since our last update on silicone inserts, a number of requests have come through to add certain rewards, namely the new silicone one and two cup inserts which are tremendously useful for reheating food in a microwave, great for baking, storing and using in conjunction with the Adventure and Explorer systems. With production deadlines approaching, we need to lock in the final product counts. We will be unlocking rewards for 48 hours only to allow those wishing to add during this FINAL opportunity which begins today at 8am, pacific standard time. Just log in to your Backerkit survey account and you can make updates. If you can’t find the survey link, this will get you started: https://revessel.backerkit.com/

If you have any trouble, we can help. Just send us a private message in Kickstarter with any add-on adjustments you would like to make, and we will update the system and send you a confirmation note.

The add-ons let you select from silicone and stainless steel inserts, bamboo cutlery and even additional Adventure and Explorer Kits. This is the last call for this project with 48 hours starting Oct 19 at 8am pst - Oct 21 at 7:59 am pst to accommodate our backers. 

Awe-some Stats

We have you to thank for believing in the mission to create functional foodware products with sophistication for everyday life. Our campaign was among the top 3% of all Kickstarter campaigns, raising over $200K with over 1150 backers across 36 countries. These stats still have us in complete awe of what a passionate Community can do for a small family-owned company. 

Backer Quotes

We also wanted to share just some of the 400+ comments that have kept us inspired to design and build our company with meaningful solutions:

"I wanted a new lunch box that was big enough to store my lunch but enabled me to separate food items without having to carry many containers. I wanted one that was not made of plastic, is eco friendly and durable so I can take it everywhere I go."

"It’s beautiful and reusable. Will work great for my family trips."

"I really like the idea of having a leakproof bento that also allows me to reduce my dependence on plastics and disposables."

"It will work out great as a portable snack platter for winery tours."

"There is no other stainless steel lunchbox like this one."

"The bamboo lid/tray is a nice touch!"

"I’ve been looking for a bento box that was unique and durable. I didn’t just want a regular camping one because I also want to use it for work."

Images / Video of Explorer Kit

Progress from the prior update

• The text block along the bottom of each silicone cup was difficult to read due to current size and spacing. After careful evaluation, we went back to ensure a larger font with a more concise format would be cleaner and easier to view.
• Bamboo cutlery production is currently being prepared and set to begin within the next one to two weeks.
• Design for packaging (more than 15 new packaging designs!) is nearing completion. We have a few boxes that require significant labor for assembly so we turned to a cleaner design with fewer closures to prevent loss from tears during packing.
• Production samples of Adventure and Explorer Kit ring hardware is expected at the end of month, including colors. 
• Samples of silicone cups are expected at end of month for testing.
• Moving into first bamboo pilot production to review with Quality Control team and inspections with mating parts.
• Product inserts are being finalized that will link to all product care and use instructions online.
• First phase of steel parts is scheduled to ship to our assembly factory this coming week.
• Shipping carriers are getting lined up. We will be updating more on shipping next month.

Project progress/timeline (see timeline visual below):

• The timeline continues to be evaluated. We’re still tracking for December shipment. 

 Project lessons to date:

•  We’re continuing to learn about engineering, supply chain efficiencies, testing capabilities in various environments and the optimal flow of goods globally in the ever-changing landscape.
•  We took a very ambitious approach with the project scope, developing seven new tools. In retrospect, launching so many new SKUs despite being a realistic target then, we did not build in enough buffer or have ample runway to operate our business in the event of an unpredicted and major global event such as the current pandemic. External risk factors like a global shut down, moving suppliers, trade wars and tariffs have all added complexities.
   

 Did you know?

•  This project launched a new product called The Explorer Kit, colors for the Adventure Kit system and silicone inserts - a total of six new molds, with four materials.
•  Kickstarter backers will be first to receive new products launched on the platform.
•  84% of Kickstarter campaigns are delayed (and that was not in a worldwide health pandemic, social and economic crisis)
•  The original Adventure Kit in white hit the market in October 2019. Feedback has been incredibly positive, especially in a health crisis. We are taking feedback to improve parts. This product is available on our site and now Amazon in the US. All new generations, color options and accessories were brought to Kickstarter in October 2019.

In health and happy adventures,

Jessica and the reVessel Team
 

reVessel September Progress and Production Updates
almost 4 years ago – Wed, Sep 30, 2020 at 02:15:46 AM

Dear Backers -

Happy Fall y'all! We are less than three months from our highly anticipated shipment date; our first International shipment and the debut of the Explorer Kit and versatile silicone inserts. We are especially grateful to the amazing Kickstarter Community for riding the ups and downs. Some great news regarding the new silicone cups. Not only are we thrilled with the early prototypes and the flexibility to microwave and use within the existing system, but what’s even more exciting is that after several revised drawings, we are now able to universally close the one and two cup inserts with the existing silicone lids currently used for stainless steel. This achievement is really at the core of what we do - maximize a product’s utilization so you can do more with less. In addition, we have upgraded all of our FDA silicone certification to LFGB European certification to advance our goal of proactively managing chemicals to the highest standard.

Here is the run down on the progress from the month:

• The Explorer and Adventure Kit’s ring hardware has been improved through an iterative mold modification process and still has a few fitting adjustments before moving to production. Currently, the ring fits, but the interference is too tight so that additional cajoling is necessary to secure it in place. Modifications will be made so we can move into production early October. 

• First trial of new samples of silicone seals, lids and inserts from new supplier are undergoing testing for performance with other parts as well as in other environments such as dishwashing
• All silicone lids have undergone improvements for a tighter, more leak resistant seal for added confidence when stowing away in bags.
• The brand new Explorer Kit seal, together with the bamboo, is undergoing water testing to ensure liquids stay in place.
• Silicone cup prototypes are incredibly promising. Several design changes were made to the ability to use the existing steel 1 and 2 cup lids on this part.

• Steel production is well underway and the first test shipment is expected by the end of next month with a second run the following month.
• Miniature replicas of all packaging have transformed into realistic models of the protective and eco-friendly products. These parts are now being tested for assembly and further design.

• Production of cutlery will begin in the coming week.
   

Project progress/timeline (see timeline visual below):

• The timeline continues to be evaluated. We’re still tracking for December shipment.

Project lessons to date:

• We’re continuing to learn about engineering, supply chain efficiencies, testing capabilities in various environments and the optimal flow of goods globally in the ever-changing landscape.
• We took a very ambitious approach with the project scope, developing six new tools. In retrospect, launching so many new SKUs despite being a realistic target then, we did not build in enough buffer or have ample runway to operate our business in the event of an unpredicted and major global event such as the current pandemic. External risk factors like a global shut down, moving suppliers, trade wars and tariffs have all added complexities.
   

Did you know?

• This project launched a new product called The Explorer Kit, colors for the Adventure Kit system and silicone inserts - a total of six new molds, with four materials.
• Kickstarter backers will be first to receive new products launched on the platform. 
• 84% of Kickstarter campaigns are delayed (and that was not in a worldwide health pandemic, social and economic crisis)
• The original Adventure Kit in white hit the market in October 2019. Feedback has been incredibly positive, especially in a health crisis. We are taking feedback to improve parts. This product is available on our site and now Amazon in the US. All new generations, color options and accessories were brought to Kickstarter in October 2019.

Have a wonderful week!

~Jessica and the reVessel Team

Let the Adventures Begin - reVessel's August Update is Packed
about 4 years ago – Wed, Aug 26, 2020 at 02:55:03 AM

Backers -

We continue to see and feel the momentum picking up from our July update. After a very busy month, we are now many steps closer to fulfillment. In August, we turned a corner seeing growth in our existing business with more people focused on preventative health, keeping food personal and protecting the planet. We've achieved huge milestones with Kickstarter development over the past 30 days. Despite the turbulent first half of the year, we remained optimistic and focused on recovery which proved to be a way through the trials. We continued to serve the Community amid the chaos, using existing reVessel products to feed healthcare workers and support our local community without the waste. You can watch the interview here: FOX5 NEWS SEGMENT

Project progress (also see timeline visual below):

• As of August 2nd, our existing molds were successfully transferred to new suppliers who will complete the remaining testing and production of silicone and hardware components. 
• First trials of samples off the tools at the new supplier are very promising and modifications to improve the function and aesthetic of these next generation parts are in the works.
• Production of all steel vessels has been initiated.
• The first Explorer Kit seal, Explorer Kit silicone storage lid and silicone cups prototype are nearly complete. We will share the samples next update.
• Explorer Kit and Adventure Kit ring colors have been finalized.
• Cutlery design has been finalized and samples approved for production.
• Packaging has been a big focus to contain the pieces and protect the product.  
• We are working with a variety of carriers to formalize the plan for distribution.
• The timeline continues to be evaluated. We’re still tracking to begin shipment in December.

TIMELINE

VISUALS & FUN TECH UPDATES FROM THE TOOLS

Explorer Kit Hardware

Slight modification is underway that will improve function and keep the design sleek. 

Bamboo Cutlery

Some slight adjustments to still take place, but these are the first sample pieces. They are designed to lay flat and stack nicely when stowing. They're awesome.

Packaging (mocks)

What you see below are mini representations of some packaging boxes and sleeve designs. The actual die lines can be challenging to decipher which way is up and which way is down, so we thought it would be fun to print them, cut them out, fold them and lay them all out together for a show and tell (please know that these small samples are not at scale with each other). Depending on what products you backed, you may not receive some of these boxes and sleeves. Each box and/or sleeve is safe to be composted or recycled. One of the best parts is that each one is folded together with the use of tabs, so no tape or glue adhesives are required to build a box/sleeve. (shipper boxes will have a small piece of kraft-style shipping tape to ensure it doesn't accidentally pop open while in transit).

Thank you for the enduring support. We truly hope you are getting excited and know that the lasting products will be worth the wait. Let us know if there is anything we can do to make this the best backer experience. 

In gratitude,

Jessica 

Project lessons to date:

• We’re continuing to learn about engineering, supply chain efficiencies, testing capabilities in various environments and the optimal flow of goods globally in the ever-changing landscape.
   
• We took a very ambitious approach with the project scope, developing six new tools. In retrospect, launching so many new SKUs despite being a realistic target then, we did not build in enough buffer or have ample runway to operate our business in the event of an unpredicted and major global event such as the current pandemic. External risk factors like a global shut down, moving suppliers, trade wars and tariffs have all added complexities.
   

Did you know?

• This project launched a new product called The Explorer Kit, colors for the Adventure Kit system and silicone inserts - a total of six new molds, with four materials.
   
• Kickstarter backers will be first to receive new products launched on the platform.
   
• 84% of Kickstarter campaigns are delayed (and that was not in a worldwide health pandemic, social and economic crisis)
   
• The original Adventure Kit in white hit the market in October 2019. Feedback has been incredibly positive, especially in a health crisis. We are taking feedback to improve parts. This product is available on our site and now Amazon in the US. All new generations, color options and accessories were brought to Kickstarter in October 2019.
   

reVessel's July Kickstarter Update
about 4 years ago – Fri, Jul 24, 2020 at 06:41:22 PM

Backers - We hope this update shines a ray of sunshine on your day because the recovery efforts we outlined in previous months have allowed us to focus back on developing our high-performance products! As fast as things changed in February, July has been full of positive shifts as a result of the recalibration doing business as “unusual.” Yes!! Thank you all for your patience and encouragement. We received some useful feedback from our backers and have taken them to heart. We hope you see your input expressed in this month’s update. 

Project progress/timeline (see timeline image below for a visual)

• We’re still tracking for December. With continued diligence (and no additional “storms”), we will be packing up boxes to reach you before the year ends.
   
• The steel Explorer Kit vessel tool is complete. Only a few minor cosmetic changes will be made to the steel during production tests next month. Interestingly, our unique design is much more difficult to achieve than your everyday container. It is stronger and sleeker. That is what sets us apart. Many factories were unable to achieve the original design and we are so grateful to our supplier for the hard work to achieve our desired aesthetic. We have arrived at a geometry that is original, complements other reVessel components and is just so visually appealing, not to mention functional.
   
• We have initiated development of the next four molds, starting with a temporary prototype so that we can evaluate the function with other parts.
   
• In the ring hardware, we continue to observe sink marks. While this does not change the function, it does not achieve the aesthetic and we will continue working.
   
• We will begin working on all new silicone molds with a new supplier who has proven their commitment to our standard for quality and aggressive timeline. This supplier will also be taking on molding the ring previously done at a different supplier. Much of our initial development on our first molds were with a highly technical company that we intended to carry out a long term relationship with. With added pressure on all of our companies, we faced the difficult decision to shift to a factory that could meet both our high standard and efficiently manage later-stage processes.

We will look forward to catching you up again in August with more highlights and learnings.

With appreciation,

Jessica and the reVessel Team

Other interesting information

Project lessons to date:

• We’re continuing to learn about engineering strategy, testing capabilities in various environments, supply chain efficiencies and the optimal flow of goods globally in the ever-changing landscape.
   
• We took a very ambitious approach with the project scope, developing six new tools. In retrospect, launching so many new SKUs despite being a realistic target then, we did not build in enough buffer or have ample capital runway to operate our business in the event of an unpredicted and major global event such as the current pandemic. External risk factors like a global shut down, moving suppliers, trade wars and tariffs have all added complexities.
   

Did you know?

• This project launched a new product called The Explorer Kit, colors for the Adventure Kit system and silicone inserts - a total of six new molds, with four materials.
   
• Kickstarter backers will be first to receive new products launched on the platform.
   
• 84% of Kickstarter campaigns are delayed (and that was not in a worldwide health pandemic, social and economic crisis), often those are the most successful projects.
   
• The original Adventure Kit in white hit the market in October 2019. Feedback has been incredibly positive, especially in a health crisis. We are taking feedback to improve parts. This product is available on our site and now Amazon in the US. All new generations, color options and accessories were brought to Kickstarter in October 2019.
   

reVessel June Kickstarter Update - Paving a path forward
about 4 years ago – Wed, Jun 24, 2020 at 01:12:26 PM

Hello Kickstarter! 

We hope you are healthy and soaking in some sunshine wherever this finds you. 

In our May update, we shared steps to recover losses as a result of the global pandemic and we are so excited to be paving the way to get back on track. We received some funding to support operations and Kickstarter development and we will continue to share transparently as we build our business back up. We know the wait is difficult and we will not let up. Delivering premium products that fuel healthy living and sustainable adventures is our priority. We are so grateful for your patience and enthusiasm as we work toward the revised December target. 

As a Kickstarter backer, we know you have a love for generously supporting the journey so that innovative projects can come to life. In the spirit of generosity and leaning on this amazing Community in these unprecedented times, we've created a completely optional opportunity so that reVessel fans the unique ability to can share this Kickstarter project with friends. Your friends can take advantage of limited specials pricing and join you on the adventure. As a token of our appreciation, we have a bonus reward for you each new backer you refer. 

Here's how it works:

1) Copy the reVessel project store link: https://revessel.backerkit.com/hosted_preorders

2) Share the project you've backed with friends via text, email or social

3) When your friends become backers, you score bonus rewards to complement your products

We will be sending a separate email with additional details, so stay tuned. Click HERE to learn more.

We will continue to navigate the constant change in the face of a pandemic and civil unrest. We feel it is critical to acknowledge our privilege as we stand in solidarity in the fight for justice, racial equity and systemic change to end racism. It has always been our position to be inclusive of all races and ethnicities and we will work even harder to do our part as individuals and as a brand to be anti-racist as well as Inclusive of the passionate and important voices of our brothers and sisters from different racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Thank you for being kind and courageous.

In healthy adventures,

Jessica and the reVessel crew