Changing the Way We Gift
Corporate gifting is a big part of business culture in India. From festival hampers to
employee goodies, companies spend crores every year on gifts. But most of these gifts end
up as waste — think plastic pens, flashy packaging, and items people don’t even use.
Rafter, a Bengaluru-based startup, wants to change this. By offering sustainable corporate
gifting solutions, Rafter helps companies choose thoughtful, eco-friendly gifts that people
actually keep and use — while doing good for the planet.
How Rafter Started
The idea for Rafter came from Basavaraj, an engineer-turned-entrepreneur from Karnataka.
He always noticed how corporate gifts often become clutter. Many companies give gifts just
to tick a box, without thinking about what happens to them later.
Basavaraj wanted to change this mindset. He started Rafter to provide companies with
gifting options that are reusable, natural, and kind to the environment. Today, Rafter is
becoming a trusted name in sustainable corporate gifting in India.
What Makes Rafter’s Gifts Different
So, what makes Rafter stand out in a crowded gifting market?
✅Eco-Friendly Materials: Rafter uses bamboo, recycled paper, seed paper, jute,
and other natural materials for their gifts and packaging.
✅Useful Products: From reusable notebooks to plan table pens and desk plants,
the gifts are designed to be practical and meaningful.
✅Zero Waste: Rafter focuses on products that don’t end up in the trash. Many
items are biodegradable or can be reused for years.
By doing this, Rafter ensures that every gift brings joy — and not waste
Impact Beyond Gifting
Rafter’s mission is bigger than just selling eco-friendly gifts. The company works with local
artisans and small manufacturing units to create their products. This not only keeps the gifts
unique but also supports local communities.
They also raise awareness about sustainability among corporate clients. Many companies
that once used plastic-heavy gifts are now switching to green gifting with Rafter’s help.
How Companies Benefit
When companies choose sustainable corporate gifts, they don’t just help the environment —
they also build a positive brand image. Clients and employees appreciate thoughtful gifts
that are useful and eco-friendly.
Many HR teams say that gifting with purpose helps them stand out. It shows that the
company cares about the planet and its people — not just profits.
Facing Challenges and Growing Stronger
Like every startup, Rafter faced its own hurdles. Convincing big companies to shift from
cheap, mass-produced gifts to sustainable options wasn’t easy. But Basavaraj believed in
the idea and kept spreading the word.
Slowly, companies started seeing the value. Today, Rafter works with several big names and
continues to grow its range of eco-friendly products.
Lessons from Rafter’s Journey
Rafter’s story is proof that even everyday things — like gifts — can be changed for the
better. It shows that sustainable business ideas are possible when you solve real problems
and stick to your mission.
Your Story Deserves to Be Heard
At The Marketing Mirror, we believe every innovative idea and inspiring startup story
deserves a spotlight. We proudly share stories of founders like Basavaraj and businesses
like Rafter that are making a real difference — one thoughtful step at a time.
