An ethical shop in a north-east town has finished top five in a competition to find the UK’s most-loved local business.
The Ethical Gift Shop and Refillery in Huntly finished fourth in the UK’s Favourite Local Business 2024 contest.
“We didn’t win, but to come fourth out of over 1000 nominations is remarkable,” said owners Ellie and Martyn Turner.
“Even more remarkable is that, compared to other winners, who were from bigger towns and cities, Huntly has, by a long way, the smallest voting population of all the top six finalists.
“It’s just mind-boggling and we are in awe of just how many people must have voted for us.”
The eco-friendly business – established in 2007 – sells eco-friendly gifts, furnishings, household items, clothing, health and beauty items and more.
In 2014, a refill area was added to promote reusing bottles and creating less waste. The trailblazing refill area now boasts almost 300 refillable products from herbs, spices, shampoos and household cleaning products.
The title went to Annie Mo’s in Aberdeen, with W. Hurst & Son on the Isle of Wight and Sisters and Misters in Falkirk finishing second and third.
Speaking prior to the ceremony, Ellie Turner said the community was at the heart of the shop being nominated.
“There is a real sense of community at the shop,” she said.
“People know we get a local produce delivery on a Monday, so will pop in then. Or they might come in for a chat and a bit of banter.
““They know they can buy just the amount they need, saving money, and we can tell them where every product is from.
“We know our customers so well, they’re more like friends now. There have even been times when we’ve had to go out for five minutes and a customer has offered to run the shop.
“It’s a two-way street and we’re so grateful for the support we have had.”
