Project

Katharina Weißig of Periodically

From 400 Euros to European Expansion: An Interview with Katharina Weißig of Periodically

As a co-founder of Periodically, Katharina Weißig is bringing public attention to an issue that is still far too often ignored: access to free menstrual products. Together with her team, she is working to remove the stigma surrounding menstruation. In this interview, she talks about the origins of Periodically, her journey as a founder, and her vision for greater equality.

Katharina, tell us about yourself and your role at Periodically.

“I’m Katharina. I grew up in Berlin and moved to Magdeburg to study medicine. During my third semester, I unexpectedly got my period during a clinical exam course and didn’t have any tampons or pads with me. My pants were soaked through, and I had to leave campus. For the first time, I wondered how it could be that toilet paper is available for free in every public restroom, but menstrual products aren’t. So, in 2021, I developed the first tampon and pad dispenser with my fellow student Corvin Groß, and that’s how we founded Periodically.”

From Problem to Startup: What drove you?

“Since we were students and only had €400 in startup capital, we had to do everything ourselves: from product development and the website to sales and logistics. And we did it all from Corvin’s student apartment. […] But for us, it was worth it every step of the way, because we have a big mission that has always driven us.”

Looking to the Future: Where Is Periodically Headed?

“Since our founding, we’ve been constantly developing new products, such as new dispenser models or our own private label for menstrual products. […] We expanded across Europe early on and will continue to do so in the future. We’ll also be adding more exciting products soon.”

Curious to learn more about Katharina’s startup story, her vision, and her advice for other founders?

You can read the full interview in our latest issue of the Landvernetzen newsletter.