Virtual sustainable store opens in Hazel Grove

A new venture bringing together locally handmade sustainable swaps for supermarket-bought bath, body and lifestyle products has launched in Stockport.

Virtual store Ecopia launched last week in Hazel Grove, with the vision of helping make Stockport more sustainable.

The venture stocks and delivers eco-conscious artisanal toiletries across Stockport, including sustainable, premium-quality shampoo bars, hand-crafted soaps, refillable candles, bamboo toothbrushes and more – many locally made.

Working in partnership with several local artisans, including Mrs Frisbee’s All Naturals in Offerton, Whitegates Wuzzies in Woodford, Vintage Belle Crafts in Gatley and local knitters in Great Moor.  Ecopia is bringing their vision for a sustainable Stockport to life.

A deposit scheme has launched on refillable glass containers for candles and aluminium bottles for body wash, shampoo and conditioner, to reduce waste. Products are skin-kind, as free from chemicals as possible and never tested on animals.

Founder Francesca Newton was struck with her business brainwave just before Christmas, after reading about the associations between the chemicals in plastics and a range of health complications, including diabetes, obesity, early onset puberty and even cancer.

“Often, the contents of cheap makeup and other toiletries also contain chemicals associated with hormone disruption, which is scary when you’re bringing up a family,” she said.

In a bid to protect her family’s health, Francesca researched alternatives to plastic and chemically-laden cosmetics, discovering various local artisans who make their own natural, safe products, such as organic shampoo and body wash.

The idea grew to incorporate other products, such as refillable glass candles, crocheted face scrubbies to replace wasteful makeup wipes and beeswax food wraps, sourced from a family in Woodford who keep their own pet bees.

Francesca said: “At Ecopia, we’re committed to keeping our environmental impact to a minimum – we use biodegradable, refillable or recyclable packaging and deliver multiple orders to set locations on specific days. I compare myself to an eco Avon Lady!”

“Our products are handmade by artisans – many locally based. When you buy from Ecopia, you’re doing your bit to support the planet – and people.”

The business had a launch event on Thursday February 27th, at Deborah Bayan’s Bridal Studio in Great Moor, which was attended by supporters and VIP guest Lady Marian Davies of Coity.