Thatcham Refillable celebrates six years of sustainability work
Thatcham Refillable has turned six years old.
Jenny and Tom Kirby first set up Thatcham Refillable in September 2018 and started attending local markets with a few containers.
They have since grown into a mobile shop trailer, stocking around 100 products and visiting markets across West Berkshire, including in Thatcham every Friday.
“Our customers are a wonderful community of amazing people. We love to chat and catch up with them,” they said.
But it is the interaction with the community which they value most.
“Tom has even taken one across the country to a funeral because she couldn’t drive there,” they added.
“We really love the community aspect of Thatcham Refillable.
“We also have what is believed to be the first zero waste refillable commercial range in the country called SESI PRO.
“These products meet all industry standards for hospitality, catering and care, plus many more.
“They also provide a quick and easy way for a business or organisation to become more environmentally responsible and sustainable.
“We are Gold Plastic Free Champion accredited and when we achieved this, it is believed we were one of only 14 nationwide and the first in West Berkshire.
“According to our suppliers’ calculations, the total single use bottles and packaging items saved by us in six years is around 83,000.”
The couple, winners of the NWN Best Green Business Award 2023, supply a wide range of environmentally-friendly, ethically-sourced body care products, household cleaning products and new since August organic bulk foods, including dried fruits, nuts, rice and pasta.
Their products are stocked at the Nature Discovery Centre in Thatcham and at Bradfield Southend Village Store, plus at collection points in Hungerford, Newbury, Compton and Tilehurst.
Their other accolades include the Thatcham Town Council Community Contributor Award 2024, Thatcham Town Council Environmental Champion Award 2023 and Neighbourhood Favourite Best Local Business Award 2023.
