Topsham Zero Waste store in the running to be named Britain’s Best Small Shop of 2018
A local shop in Topsham, near Exeter, which has prevented the use of over 11,000 single use plastics by providing an opportunity for customers to shop packaging free since it opened in March, is on the shortlist of retailers in the running to be named Britain’s Best Small Shop of 2018.
Nourish of Topsham is the first zero waste store in Exeter, stocking innovative products from small companies that help people reduce the amount of single use plastic that they need whilst promoting other small businesses. Owner Sarah Martins says they have closed a gap in the market in the town, so that people can now do their complete weekly shop in Topsham.
The Best Small Shops competition, managed by the Independent Retailers Confederation (IRC) sponsored by booost, the brand new loyalty, gift and promotions app for independent retailers and their customers, celebrates the commitment and creativity of independent retailers on the UK’s High Streets and the central role they play in their local communities. The winner will be announced at an event at the Houses of Parliament on November 13th.
“The nature of the business necessitates communication with the customers, and many of my clients come in for a chat as well as for food, particularly those who are older or who live on their own,” explains Sarah.
“We give back to the community by rounding up final purchase to the nearest 10p, and donating the difference to Hospice Care Devon. Nourish matches this donation. We also have a writing instruments recycling scheme in association with Terracycle, which raises money for the local primary school who get 1p for every item collected. Although a very tiny company we have also committed to paying the Real Living wage, and are members of the Real Living Wage Association.”
“Despite all of the bad headlines and the high-profile closures of larger stores, we firmly believe that specialist independent retailers can thrive in this climate by delivering a truly unique retail experience,” explains Mark Walmsley, Chairman of the Independent Retailers Confederation.
“The Best Small Shops competition enables us celebrate this unique industry, the passion, service, flexibility and knowledge of independent shop owners offer and show customers what makes independent retailers so special.”
