In our latest blog, we meet Edel Burke, Owner of All Things Natural, Market Cross, Sligo Town
We are on a mission to be a leader in the development of circular economy products and to support local businesses. We want to work with people and communities to make green living more accessible and collaborative…we’re all in this together. One small change from each person can make a difference.
- Tell us about your store and how it all started.
In early 2020, just before lockdown, I was selling my soy wax melts in the Strandhill People’s Market. I could see a demand for environmentally friendly products, so I decided to offer more of a range and sell in farmer markets in north Leitrim and other areas in Sligo too. As business grew, I spotted a premises available in Market Cross in Sligo Town and in February 2021 I officially opened my little eco shop, All Things Natural – the only Zero Waste Refill Shop in Sligo Town. In a former life, I had a cleaning business and the cleaning products used had chemicals in them. This always jarred with me and after watching David Attenborough’s programmes in most recent years, I was so fed up with inaction and I was inspired to act. This is how it all started for me.
- What is a typical day for you?
The shop opens Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm and on Sundays I have my stall in Strandhiill People’s Market. A typical day in the shop, I am busy opening for 10am stocktaking and making sure dispensers are filled. We now offer food items as well as sustainable household item, baby items, natural wellbeing so things can get very busy. When I’m not busy serving customers, I’m usually cleaning the shelves, floors and keeping an eye on trends, and talking to customers. A lot more visitors from other countries, especially from the USA, are visiting the shop and local area, which is great to see.
- What are the biggest challenges you face in your business?
I run the business on my own, sometimes my son helps when he can, but generally, it’s just me. And with no other shops in the town for people to refill their products, it can get very busy. So, capacity would be a challenge. Another challenge would be getting my name out there. Many of my customers are word of mouth. I try my best to keep my social media channels up-to-date, a like and a share is huge for a small business like me.
- What new trends do you see emerging among this sector and your customers?
I see more people really wanting to cut down on their plastic waste. They just want to do their bit. I would say this sentiment has doubled since I started my business two years ago, which is so encouraging. I also have a lot of customers concerned about hazardous chemicals and I often get asked, “Is this safe to go into the septic tank”. Another big trend is reusing and refilling. People really feel like they are doing their bit when they bring in their old bottle and refill it rather than going to a shop to buy a product, even if it is made from recycled plastic. People in Sligo town can now refill their products. Household products like cleaners, washing detergents, shampoos, conditioners, and handwashes are the most popular refill items. I find it difficult to keep these stocked up! Locally produced products are also sought out. Lots of customers ask for products that are made locally and in Ireland.
- What’s next for you and your store?
Since I opened All Things Natural just over a year ago, I have gone from zero to 60! I introduced food items, a wider refill range, a men’s skincare range, and baby products. Most of the products in my shop are made in Ireland, I would say around 80%, so by this time next year I am aiming that 100% of the products available here are made in Ireland. I am hugely passionate about supporting fellow local businesses.
- How will you be celebrating World Earth Day this year?
Well, every day is World Earth Day but yes, there will be more focus globally. I’ll be celebrating the day in my shop with a little giveaway in-store and sharing tips on social media. Keep an eye on my Instagram and Facebook pages.
- What are your top 3 tips for World Earth Day?
- Start small – come in with an old bottle/container, fill it up, (which is much cheaper) and see how you feel.
- Seek out locally made products.
- Give a like and share for small businesses in your community – without these little businesses, towns are gone!
For more information visit www.allthingsnatural.ie
