Margaret Pink: From Tupperware Legend to Charitable Pioneer
Margaret Pink, a Mount Gambier resident, recently concluded her 57-year career as one of Australia's longest-serving Tupperware saleswomen. This coincided with the company's withdrawal from the Australian market in December last year due to financial pressures. Pink, a mother of three, described how Tupperware helped her transition from a shy individual to a manager, providing social connections and income for her family, particularly during a prolonged period when her husband was unable to work.
Tupperware helped her transition from a shy individual to a manager, providing social connections and income for her family, particularly during a prolonged period when her husband was unable to work.
Tupperware's History and Market Exit
Tupperware, invented in 1947 by Earl Silas Tupper, became known for its innovative plasticware and leak-proof designs. Pink highlighted that Tupperware parties provided important social outlets for women in rural communities, especially during the challenging times of the late 1960s and 70s. She recounted extensive travel to host multiple parties across south-eastern South Australia.
Tupperware parties provided important social outlets for women in rural communities, especially during the challenging times of the late 1960s and 70s.
Despite being a strong market during the COVID-19 pandemic, Tupperware filed for bankruptcy in September 2024, citing increased competition, declining demand, and rising input costs. CEO Laurie Goldman noted that the company's financial position was severely impacted by the challenging macroeconomic environment, leading to its exit from the Australian market after over 60 years.
A New Chapter: Tupper-Thrifting for Charity
Following Tupperware's departure, Pink initiated a new project called "Tupper-thrifting." She collects donated vintage and second-hand Tupperware items, which she then sells to raise money for local in-home hospice support groups in Mount Gambier. This cause is personal, as the group had provided assistance to her husband before his passing.
This cause is personal, as the group had provided assistance to her husband before his passing.
Pink operates from a shopfront, where she processes donations and prepares items for resale. In the past 18 months, her efforts have generated over $3,000 for the hospice group, with strong demand for original items and vintage colors. Pink reflected on Tupperware's transformative impact on her life, providing social engagement and personal growth.