A PAIR of green-thinking entrepreneurs have brought the war against plastic to Petersfield by opening a ‘scoopermarket’ stall.
There were two new faces in The Square last Wednesday as Alice Hooley and Laura Hayward launched their ‘Refill and Replenish’ stall.
Shoppers can buy pasta, grains, pulses, spices and similar foodstuffs from the friendly pair as well as ethical soaps and cosmetics.
But it’s all loose and unpackaged with customers being encouraged to bring and fill their own containers and bags, thereby reducing waste.
“We’re both keen environmentalists and we’re looking at ways to cut back on plastic,” said Alice, who first came up with the idea a couple of years ago.
“We’ve all seen the impact plastic is having on the environment but it’s not a case of living a life with no plastic, but less, and helping people to make gradual steps.”
Although the pair struggled to keep hold of their gazebo on a gusty day, there was plenty of interest from customers to suggest their stall could become a frequent sight on market days.
“It’s been pretty good so far,” said Laura, from Waterlooville.
“A lot of people have said ‘we’ve heard about you on Facebook’ and have come down here as a result. A lot have said we need to be here on a Saturday when it’s busier.”
The pair, who intend to take their stall to various markets around south east Hampshire over the coming months, also got a warm welcome from other traders on their debut. They were also surprised how many people got the message and brought along containers.
Alice, who lives at Emsworth, said: “It’s really positive and lots of people have got the message and have come along with containers, all prepared to stock up.”
Laura added: “There was a woman with lots and lots of glass containers so we were really impressed with her.
“We’ve enjoyed being here and would like to stay here for a while.”