Q&A with greenlane founder Lara Petrig

As people are always asking the story behind greenlane and how it all started, we thought we would take the opportunity to give you the inside story straight from our founder, Lara Petrig.

Can you give us the backstory to what inspired the greenlane store?

While living in Italy, I noticed there were many natural cosmetic products available to buy. In Switzerland at the time, natural cosmetic products were only sparsely available, and they were not of the best quality. I wanted to bring aesthetic and high-quality, clean beauty products to Switzerland and make them accessible to customers.

While on holiday in England, I came across a street called greenlane, and that was the final inspiration I needed.

How do you decide what brands to include in your extensive collection? What are the most important factors?

At greenlane, obviously, the ingredients are a priority, and in addition, we also focus on textures, scents, design, and the story behind the brands.

We have such a variety of brands and products to suit all ages, budgets and skin types, and we love discovering new and exciting brands, but we are very selective in what new brands we launch. They must be unique.

What have you found most challenging about the business and growing the greenlane brand?

I would definitely say that HR is always challenging. Growing the company, adding new employees, and making changes when things are not working is not easy, but it is so important to have a team that works together for the development of the company and gives the best service to our customers.

If you can only choose 3 skincare products, what can't you live without?

A great cleanser to prep the skin for products and remove the day, facial oil for hydration and to massage, and an eye cream. My favorites, for now!

FURTUNA SKIN Cleansing Oil Balm

U BEAUTY The Super Intensive Face Oil

IN FIORE Vis Claire Supreme

What are your top tips to help balance work demands and family life with a young child?

Self-care & wellness—doing something good for yourself—are essential. I try to fit in time for myself as often as possible so that I can be a balanced mommy for Liya. Liya and I have our morning ritual together: juice, coffee, the NZZ Akzent podcast, and a facial massage. It's sweet to see how she's already starting to massage her face.

I go to personal training every week to rebuild my muscles after pregnancy, and I visit an acupuncturist every month and enjoy a good body massage. Furthermore, I like good podcasts, documentaries, and books; they give me new inspiration. Also, being out in nature, walking by the lake, helps me keep perspective.

What do you see in the future for greenlane?

I can’t say much yet, but watch this space; there is so much happening in the background, the conclusion of years of work on a big project. I am so excited to share everything with you soon.

Thank you for your support - you really are the best community!