20% of all people in our country develop some form of skin cancer. That could be different! Thought Wout and Philip of Smeerkees. Smeerkees makes sunscreen accessible to everyone by placing mobile sunscreen poles at events and public places. These posts offer free sunscreen, which promotes its use and helps raise awareness about skin cancer.
Co-founder Wout Spackler explains the company vision and creation. "Did you know that skin cancer is starting to become an increasing problem in the Netherlands? Globally, our country even ranks fourth, behind Australia, New Zealand and Denmark. During a sunny terrace day in Tilburg, we found out that you can't actually find sunscreen anywhere. Yes, you can run to the supermarket, but then you lose your spot on the terrace."
This is how the pair came up with the idea of selling sachets: single-use sachets containing a dose of sunscreen for the sun-conscious patio or festival goer.
As impact startup Smeerkees is also trying to raise awareness. In a world where the sun is starting to shine harder and harder, this is much needed. "Our ultimate real goal is 30 per cent less skin cancer in 30 years. That's hefty, but creating awareness and making sunscreen available in an easy, quick and free way will promote its use."
Looking to the future, Wout Spackler sees many opportunities for creative partnerships. "There has been a lot going on recently about sunscreen, including in the media. So attention has been drawn to the subject, it is becoming increasingly important. The summer season is coming to an end now, so soon the full focus will be on next spring. Then we want to go from the thirty sunbathing posts we have now to at least a hundred. In the Netherlands, but maybe also abroad." Smiling, he adds, "But for now, first go on holiday, maybe a few weeks in the sun!"
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