If you’ve heard whispers about an exciting new bulk store soon to be launched in Whaingaroa, it’s not just a rumour – get ready to dust off your jars!
And when the Raglan Refill crew say “Think Global, Act Local,” you know they mean business.
“Even though the health of our planet is central to our new venture, with our focus on package-free products, there are many other benefits it will bring to our community,” says crew member Davian Lorson.
With the cost-of-living crisis and growing concerns about the power of the duopoly supermarkets, this project will offer affordable pantry basics. To keep prices as low as possible, Raglan Refill will be a largely volunteer-run, non-profit venture. “What’s great about our volunteer model is the wonderful collaborative community energy our project will help foster,” Lorson says.
Set to be based in one of the new purpose-built cabins in the Raglan Club carpark (next to the recently relocated Lions op-shop), the store will offer a variety of dry goods, including grains, nuts, and spices, as well as a range of cleaning products—sold in bulk. Customers will be encouraged to bring their own containers, although reusable jars and paper bags will also be available.
The project is fortunate to have snapped up Eloise Deller, former Trade Aid manager. “I’m so pleased to be part of another volunteer-run social enterprise in Raglan,” Deller says.
“Our idea has received wonderful support already from the Raglan community,” says project initiator Chloe Waretini, with Whaingaroa Environment Centre, Xtreme Zero Waste, and Raglan Naturally helping the project come to life. And there has been a wave of support from the rest of the community, with a survey showing that 99% of the 200+ respondents are eager to shop at Raglan Refill.
However, with the group hoping to open up shop before Christmas, they need Raglan’s help! To fill the store with great products, they’re launching a Givealittle page where you can pre-purchase store credit, with vouchers of $25, $50, $100, and $200 available.
Visit: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/raglan-refill
