Embracing Sustainability: New Eco-Store ‘Refillable’ Opens in the Cotswolds

In a move that champions sustainability, mother-daughter duo Stamena and Leny Dimitrova have opened the doors to their second Refillable eco-store in the picturesque town of Tetbury in the Cotswolds. Known for their commitment to providing plastic-free, locally sourced products, the pair initially launched their first sustainable grocery café and deli in Bath during the height of the pandemic back in 2020.

Refillable: A new era of sustainable shopping

A Growing Legacy of Eco-Consciousness

Starting with just 134 products, the initial concept of Refillable was to create an alternative shopping experience for environmentally conscious customers. Fast forward four years, and now the shop boasts over 1,500 sustainable items, free from single-use plastics. The significant growth of their business provided the perfect impetus for expansion into Tetbury, where they will open at 21 Market Place later this month.

Stamena expresses gratitude for the unwavering support from customers:

“The unwavering support and enthusiasm of our community in Bath has been our greatest source of strength.”
This loyalty has not only encouraged their journey thus far but also led them to explore new horizons in the thriving Cotswolds.

A Vision for the Future

With plans to feature 100% sustainable and, where possible, local products, the Tetbury store promises to uphold the brand’s core values while fostering a community-focused ethos. Looking ahead, a bistro is set to launch in spring 2025, allowing customers to enjoy delightful meals amid a vibrant environment dedicated to sustainability.

Leny, who has also embraced entrepreneurship from a young age, shared insights about their journey:

“We intend to open numerous Refillable Shops in the South West over time.”
Their long-term vision includes building strong ties with local producers and enhancing the area’s independent trade scene.

The next step in the evolution of sustainable shopping

The Drive Behind Sustainability

Before becoming the eco-pioneers they are today, Stamena’s journey started in Bulgaria with ventures in South Africa. After moving to the UK, they became increasingly distressed by the pervasive use of plastic in mainstream supermarkets.

Leny explained, “Since being in the UK, increasingly my mum and I felt almost physically ill with every trip to the main supermarkets when we saw the mountain of non-recyclable plastic in our shopping carts.” Their backgrounds shaped their commitment to creating a shopping experience free from plastic, mirroring the model they were familiar with in South Africa.

Community at Heart

The decision to open Refillable in Tetbury was the result of thorough research and a deep connection to the town. With its enchanting beauty and environmentally conscious residents, Tetbury provides an ideal setting for their sustainable grocery concept. As they prepare to launch, the Refillable team remains committed to supporting local initiatives.

Looking forward, the heartfelt words of Stamena resonate:

“We are looking forward to what the next four years of plastic-negative shopping will bring in both the city of Bath and this beautiful South Cotswold market town.”
Refillable stands not just as a shop but as a beacon of hope for sustainable living.

The quaint charm of Tetbury aligns perfectly with their sustainable ethos

As Refillable continues to grow, its story serves as an inspiration for those looking to embrace eco-friendly practices in their everyday lives. With its rich offerings and commitment to the environment, the new store is poised to become a central hub for sustainability enthusiasts in the Cotswolds.

For more information about the store, visit the Refillable website.