Published: 24/11/2023
Updated: January 24th, 2024 at 01:31 pm
Please tell us a little about your business.
Easter Greens is a vibrant 100% vegan grocery store that offers an extensive range of products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, wholesome wholefoods, delectable snacks, innovative meat and dairy alternatives, as well as eco-conscious toiletries and household essentials.
Can you describe your shop to us?
Imagine stepping into a cosy local haven filled with the warmth of the friendly staff and an inviting array of products that reflect our commitment to a compassionate and sustainable lifestyle.
What inspired you to open your shop?
My personal journey as a dedicated vegan sparked the idea to create a store that alleviates the challenge of finding reliable vegan products. Recognising the need for a haven where every item on the shelves resonates with ethical values, Easter Greens was born. It’s a space where customers can shop with confidence, knowing that every product aligns with their beliefs.
Where is your shop based?
Our flagship store is nestled on Easter Road, in the heart of the Abbeyhill area in enchanting Edinburgh.
How long have you been open?
Easter Greens has been enriching lives and nurturing change since its inception in August 2019.
What makes Easter Greens special?
Easter Greens stands out as Scotland’s exclusive 100% vegan grocery store, renowned for the welcoming atmosphere created by our affable staff and the superior quality of our fresh produce.
What’s your local high street like?
Easter Road boasts a vibrant and emerging landscape, teeming with independent boutiques and charming cafes. The area exudes a strong sense of community, contributing to the overall allure of the high street.
How has the shop and your local area changed since you opened?
Our store has remained a constant in an area that has seen its share of changes. Despite a few transitions in neighbouring establishments, the resilience of our community and the emergence of new ventures have kept the high street’s vitality intact.
How would your customers describe you and your shop?
Easter Greens is hailed as a cherished local gem – a small, independent treasure trove staffed by welcoming individuals. Our offerings are celebrated for their vegan diversity, providing a haven for those seeking plant-based delights.
What kind of products do you stock?
An expansive selection of 100% plant-based groceries, spanning a variety of categories: from a rainbow of fruits and vegetables to tantalising vegan cheese and protein-rich meat substitutes, from delectable snacks and chocolates to nourishing wholefoods. Additionally, we offer eco-friendly toiletries and household items, including convenient refills.
What are your best sellers at the moment?
Our best sellers mirror the heart of our store: fresh produce, with fruits and vegetables leading the pack. The Ecoleaf refills, particularly laundry liquid and washing-up liquid, are also top favourites. Additionally, products like Clear Spot Tofu, Engevita Yeast Flakes, and Delphi Foods Houmous enjoy a dedicated following.
What do you think will be the next big thing in vegan food/living?
The rise of fermented foods such as kimchi and kombucha has caught my attention, garnering popularity among our patrons. On the horizon, I’m intrigued by the potential of advancements in fish replacement alternatives within the vegan food sphere.
How are you and your other local independent retailers faring?
Independent retailers in Edinburgh, including Easter Greens, are holding their own and flourishing, a testament to the resilience of the community. Though challenges like margins and costs persist, the unique blend of local businesses and the boost from the August festivals sustain us.
What are you most proud of about your business, and why?
Above all, I take immense pride in my exceptional staff. Their dedication and passion have been the driving force behind Easter Greens’ success. The positive online reviews showcasing their excellence and my complete trust in them to manage the shop in my absence are sources of immense satisfaction.
What drives you?
My unwavering drive stems from a deep-rooted goal: to make a tangible difference in our local communities. Beyond providing quality products, Easter Greens actively participates in initiatives like our local food bank collection and annual fundraisers for deserving charities like Empty Kitchens Warm Hearts, embodying our commitment to effect positive change.
Which products would you pack to take to a desert island?
If indulgence were the priority, LoveRaw wafer bars would be my choice. However, for practicality, cases of Thirsty Planet Water would ensure hydration and sustainability.
What’s next for Easter Greens?
Easter Greens is poised for expansion, with my sights set on opening more stores. Currently, I’m actively seeking businesses akin to ours in Scotland and the North of England, with the potential to seamlessly transform into fully vegan outlets, aligning with our vision of promoting compassionate living and sustainable choices.
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