Small Business Month

As we wrap up Small Business month, we thought we'd share a bit of our story with you!

Just over 5 years ago, we embarked on a mission to tackle one of our major environmental problems: plastic. Inspired by other refillery models popping up around the globe, and frustrated by our lack of local options, we jumped in headfirst, as activists and trailblazers do. We knew we could gather and create a tribe of conscious consumers who wanted to change things right along with us!

Our reception from the community was fantastic! We did, however, encounter a lot of rejection, vendors who were unwilling to try new ways, patronizing conversations saying we wouldn’t make it through the first year... Oh, and then of course Covid hit six weeks after opening… (which was not in our business plan!)

We would love to tell you that it's been easy, but the truth is that's not the case. It's been a pretty darn bumpy windy road, with lots of dips and surprise turns.

But the view... the view is amazing.

We see the changes people are making, big & small. From octogenarians happily reminiscing about the familiarity of glass and paper packaging as they refill their spices, to young parents bravely taring their first jars. One of our favourite sights is the kids, excitedly pouring laundry soap or pulling a bulk bin lever.

And when the kids start teaching others how to refill... well, this is a multi-generational shift. Our hearts fill with joy and hope.

This beautiful passion for a cleaner planet then inspires creatives to embark on their dreams of making their own planet-friendly offerings. It also causes established companies rethink their business model. The ripple effect gives consumers more options.

This is how the world changes. We’re doing it together, and we’re so grateful for all of you who’ve joined us. So while embarking on this journey may not have been easy, it’s definitely been worth it.

We know most small businesses go through similar growing pains, and that their passion & community are what keep them fighting the good fight, especially those who are trying something new! So we'd like to give a shout out and a cheer to all of the small businesses today, as well as the communities that lift them up & keep them going through all the highs and the lows. We’re so grateful for both! 💗