Ann Germanow

I attribute my success to hard work, determination, and an unwavering belief that there had to be a better way. For years, facilities relied on waxed paper liner bags that looked like lunch bags to manage menstrual waste. I knew there had to be a better way! That conviction and unwavering passion drove me to challenge the status quo and develop products that are more hygienic, more effective, and better suited to the realities of modern restroom maintenance and user expectations.

One of the best pieces of advice I ever received came when I would tell people that I had no background in sales or marketing. They would simply say, "Tell your story, and tell it with the passion you have." At first, I wasn't sure that was enough. After all, I was the one responsible for selling the product. But I learned that my passion and belief in the solution were my greatest sales tools. No one understood the problem better than I did, and no one believed more strongly that the industry deserved a better solution.

So I told the story—over and over again. I shared why the existing products weren't working, why facilities and users deserved something better, and why I was committed to creating it. That passion opened doors, built relationships, and ultimately helped turn an idea into a successful business.

My advice to other women is simple: take the risk. If you're passionate about something and truly believe you have a solution to a real problem, validate the need and then don't give up. I entered an industry that was, and still is, largely male-dominated. There were certainly challenges, but I learned that persistence and belief in your mission can take you a long way. You don't have to know everything when you start. You just need the determination to keep moving forward, learn along the way, and refuse to let obstacles define your success. If you believe in what you're doing, keep telling your story. Passion, persistence, and purpose can open doors you never imagined possible.

One of the biggest challenges in this field has been selling a product designed primarily for women while often presenting it to decision-makers who are men. oday, there is tremendous momentum behind the menstrual equity movement, with many states and organizations working to provide free period products in public restrooms. That's an important step forward. However, the conversation can't stop at access—we also need to address the safe and hygienic disposal of those products. Disposal simply isn't a topic most people want to discuss. Many assume that products can be flushed away or tossed into a receptacle and someone else will deal with the consequences. Yet improper disposal leads to clogged plumbing, unsanitary conditions, and increased exposure risks for custodial staff.

At the same time, I see this as one of the greatest opportunities in our industry. As awareness grows, facilities are beginning to recognize that menstrual waste requires thoughtful disposal solutions and proper maintenance procedures. I've been fortunate to help advance best practices within the cleaning industry, emphasizing that menstrual waste should not be treated like ordinary trash. Proper containment, disposal, and custodial training are essential for protecting both restroom users and the employees responsible for maintaining these spaces.

Honesty has always been one of my most important personal and business values. I also believe deeply in hard work, responsibility, innovation, and resilience. As a cancer survivor, I've learned firsthand the importance of overcoming obstacles, staying positive during difficult times, and never giving up when faced with challenges.

My husband and I have built and operated this business for more than 20 years as a very small team, and that success has come from dedication, perseverance, and a willingness to continuously improve.

Innovation is especially important to me because I'm always thinking about how we can do better—not just for today's customers, but for future generations. Recently, we transitioned our products to 100% post-consumer recycled plastic to make them more sustainable and reduce environmental impact.

I admire people who are honest, hardworking, accountable, and willing to challenge the status quo. Those values have guided both my personal life and my business journey, and I believe they are fundamental to long-term success.