24 September, VANCOUVER, BC — Since ChopValue embarked on the journey of building a network of distributed micro manufacturing franchises, the company has been inspired by the positive responses from communities around the world wanting to become more resource efficient and making circular economy the norm. Today, they are excited to announce their first Alberta location in Calgary.

With one of the most beautiful backyards on Earth, Calgary packs a punch when it comes to vibrancy, community and energy. Calgarians take pride in their growing culinary and arts culture and back it up with a drive to support local and be mindful of their impact on the environment. The ChopValue YYC team can’t wait to bring this circular economy concept to Calgary!

Meet the team behind ChopValue YYC:

“We could make a difference locally and be part of a global community” - Joanne and Mike, Team ChopValue YYC.

Joanne Dafoe and Mike Bodnar are the team that brings the excitement behind ChopValue YYC. Both Joanne and Mike are born and raised Calgarians with entrepreneurial pasts and uninhibited enthusiasm for the future. Joanne has successfully operated her own Landscape Design business for 14+ years, and Mike, after putting himself through University leading his own sod installation business, has been a Geologist for 8 years. When they aren’t working, they can be found playing a game of Kubb in the park with their families.

“When you bring chopsticks to a local Microfactory and watch as we give them a second life, the feeling is incredible. You actually get to experience the big difference a small action can make — not to mention, the product is stunning and sure to be a conversation piece for any home or business,” says Joanne and Mike.

With big smiles on their faces, they have been working on bringing SMĪLE to the Calgary community for the last couple of weeks. They are also excited to start the chopstick+ as part of ChopValue's fully circular collection program in Calgary. Get in touch with ChopValue YYC to welcome them to our team, or connect them with valuable resources, meaningful connections or opportunities in their local community at calgary@chopvalue.com. For more information, please follow Joanne and Mike on instagram and facebook @chopvalue_yyc.

About ChopValue:

hopValue was founded with the intention of leading by example in making the circular economy the norm. To date, we have recycled over 26 million chopsticks into innovative high-performance sustainable products.

The fully circular Microfactory franchise concept defines the term “made local - wherever you are,” as we source, manufacture, distribute, and employ within local communities. Our way of walking the talk confirms the sustainable success of our concept. With a network of like-minded franchisees, we aim to de-globalize supply chains and create a positive, resource-efficient impact for a carbon-neutral future.