A new zero waste shop has opened in Braintree

Amanda Hedges, has unveiled the new all-natural store after becoming increasingly frustrated with plastic and unnecessary packaging from weekly shops.

Naturally Unwrapped was opened by the Braintree resident after planning for the past 9 months.

Amanda said: “I originally came to view the shop in January, left my full time job in April, before eventually getting the keys in September.

“I had been researching and planning for months before finally opening.”

Inside: The store features a vareity of products that focuses on decreasing waste output

Amanda recognised the lack of zero waste shops nearby so opened one herself for the local community and surrounding areas.

The shop invites customers to bring their own containers to fill up with the food or liquids on offer.

There are dried foods like pasta, rice, pulses, grains, nuts and fruit, with the liquids ranging from shampoos to household cleaning products.

Amanda has said how this type of shop is something that will appeal to many people.

She said: “As well as reducing single use plastics, this way of shopping also cuts down on food waste; you might only need a little for a recipe, live alone or on a budget.

“Shopping in this traditional way, the customer only pays for what’s in the container.”

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Amanda sources her food products from cooperative suppliers who share the same fairly traded, ethical and sustainable values as herself.

The liquid products are from closed loop companies, where the empty containers are taken back, cleaned and refilled.

Some products are also sourced from locals to support small businesses in the community.

Amanda has said how the response so far has been very encouraging.

She said: “People are finding prices very reasonable with a good range of products and the response to it on social media has been particularly good.”

Naturally Unwrapped can be found at Blake House Craft Centre in Braintree.