06 Jul The First Straw

In 1888 Marvin Stone invented and patented the original paper straw. That patent became the foundation for Stone’s company—the same company that manufactures Aardvark paper straws today. Stone’s patent and his innovative spirit for all things round and tubular lives on through Aardvark of Precision Products Groups (PPG). They offer a quirky collection of paper straws to boost your retro flair.

Aardvark paper straws were introduced in 2007, primarily in response to a growing anti-plastic movement. Restaurants, hospitals and other services industries, the main buyers of plastic straws in the US, started looking around for more sustainable, eco-friendly options.

As a leading US manufacturer of small-size cylindrical tubing solutions, PPG was asked to create a straw that was more environmentally friendly. The answer was in its archives: Marvin Stone’s original 1888 patent for the first paper straw. Putting a modern spin on Stone’s original concept, PPG was able to create an all-natural paper straw more durable than those soggy cardboard ones.

What’s most unique about Aardvark (aside from the name that immediately makes you think about sucking things up) is the flexible paper straw. That’s right, a bendy-straw made of paper! In keeping with the innovative spirit of Marvin Stone, PPG invented the first and only flexible paper straw. The last defense for choosing plastic straws has been trounced.

A fun palette of colors is offered in several collections. Holiday, designs like clovers, pumpkins, and snowflakes, a large assortment of sports team logos, and plenty of other fun patterns and colors give your establishment many opportunities to keep customers attention on their beverages. PPG’s Aardvark paper straws claim to be the only paper straws on the market made with FDA food grade-approved inks and paper. They’re a fun finishing touch for fresh drinks in tall glasses. Aardvark’s paper straws can be found at these retailers and in use in sustainability-focused restaurants like the popular chain Ted’s Montana Grill.