If you’re the type to keep a handful of reusable bags in your car, this new store invites you to take your sustainability to a new level.
Nestled among the familiar murals and shops of The Piazza YEG, Earth’s Refillery Coop offers sustainable and packaging-free food, cleaning supplies, and personal care goods alongside their creative cafe creations.
“It can be shocking and confusing the first time,” says founding member Christine Neumann. “But staff and customers around you are happy to help you.”
A refillery means you may refill your used containers rather than buy new packaging with every purchase. The intention is not only to reduce waste, but promote thinking about the things we keep and the things we throw away. Simply bring your clean empty containers and leave with them full of fresh staples.
“It’s a little more complicated, maybe, but it’s beneficial to slow down and have an intentional, slower-paced shopping trip in the week,” explains Neumann.
Products are labelled with point of origin and their organic status. First-time shoppers will be excited to see just how many products — including sought-after herbs, teas, and vegan products — are sourced from right here in Alberta.
“We’re locally sourced where possible, and locally owned by the same people you see working here,” says Neumann.
As for the cooperative aspect of their business, they are pursuing a radical approach to business ownership, accountability, and community.
“From hiring, there is a candidacy period of six months,” explains Neumann. “After that, if we’re mutually excited about each other and the business, that employee can become a worker-member, which means buying and being equal with other owners.”
“There is no boss at the top. There are no percentages taken out from sales. We take a look at the numbers and vote on how the income should be divided.”
Customers can become customer-members through a one-time fee of $5 and an annual $20 subscription. Benefits of customer membership include a 2 per cent discount on refill and cafe goods, as well as rewards, voting rights, and opportunities for committee participation.
While initially slated to be a roastery, complications with the roasting equipment mean on-site roasting will be delayed until the machinery can be properly serviced. Until then, Neumann remains excited and proud of the unique drinks and snacks provided by their cafe.
Earth’s Refillery Coop is confident in creating a compassionate business to face a disposable world. Stop by with an open mind and an empty jar to enjoy competitive pricing on everyday goods, alongside a unique approach to how we can shop.
Visit Earth’s Refillery Coop
10831 95 St.
earthsrefillerycoop.ca
Opening hours:
Monday - Tuesday CLOSED
Wednesday - Sunday 11 am - 6 pm
Thanks for the article, I am very interested in us moving towards a refillable future!
So glad to hear of your stores grand opening, I will be in soon myself