After being inspired by European phone straps, Friederike Kuehn creates RIKKA, a brand that offers fashionable and functional accessories while prioritizing sustainability and community support.
In May 2023, Brisbane-based entrepreneur Friederike Kuehn launched RIKKA, a brand focused on stylish and functional phone accessories, after being inspired by her experiences with phone straps during a visit to Europe. Kuehn, a mother of three, noticed the popularity of these accessories in Germany, Italy, and France and quickly recognized their utility. “I thought, ‘Oh My God! How did I live without this?’ It is the best travel accessory I have ever purchased,” she said, recalling her revelation.
Upon returning to Australia, Kuehn identified a void in the market for fashionable and durable phone straps. This realization led her to create a range of products that not only serve a practical purpose but are also visually appealing. Her flagship product, the Universal Phone Strap, has garnered attention and was nominated for the 2024 SHE-Com Awards. Kuehn stated, “Being a Mum, of course I can see the benefit for busy parents who never have enough hands for anything! But our products have been popular with all ages and life stages, from teenagers to the elderly.”
RIKKA’s product line includes phone cases, crossbody straps, and wrist straps, all designed to integrate seamlessly into modern life. Kuehn noted that today, “our whole lives are on our phones,” highlighting the importance of keeping them accessible and stylish. The creation of RIKKA took over a year of research, prototyping, and sourcing quality materials to ensure that the products not only function well but also fit contemporary fashion trends.
The growth of RIKKA has been notable, with the brand experiencing a 76% year-on-year increase since its inception. Kuehn attributes much of RIKKA’s success to effective business strategies, including partnering with other Australian female entrepreneurs such as photographers and graphic designers. “Working with other female entrepreneurs not only helped develop our brand but also fostered a strong community,” she explained.
In addition to creating practical and fashionable accessories, Kuehn is committed to sustainability. Her vision incorporates durable materials to reduce waste, illustrating that convenience can coexist with environmental consciousness. She emphasized the importance of offering high-quality products that truly last. RIKKA’s universal design accommodates both iPhone and Samsung users, setting it apart from competitors that cater to specific brands. “We’re not just creating phone accessories—we’re offering a seamless blend of practicality and aesthetics,” Kuehn remarked.
However, Kuehn’s entrepreneurial journey was not without challenges. She faced difficulties in finding reliable manufacturers that could meet her quality standards, alongside the pressures of competing against established brands. “Competing with well-established brands meant we had to be strategic—we couldn’t just outspend them, so we had to outthink them,” she recalled. Balancing the demands of business with motherhood posed another significant challenge, leading her to believe that “growing a business while raising children is probably the biggest challenge—it’s about making sure each gets the attention it deserves and needs.”
Kuehn believes in the importance of surrounding oneself with knowledgeable professionals and remaining open to advice, stating, “No one knows it all.” She encourages budding entrepreneurs to identify market gaps and develop products that address these needs while remaining resilient in the face of obstacles. “Success doesn’t happen overnight, and every challenge presents an opportunity to grow,” she added.
Looking ahead, Kuehn plans to expand RIKKA in 2025, demonstrating her commitment to creating innovative and stylish solutions for everyday challenges. RIKKA’s philosophy is not just about selling products; it also emphasizes supporting local talents and fostering community involvement, making it a brand with purpose at its core.
Source: Noah Wire Services
