Opening just prior to the latest COVID-19 lockdown has not stopped a new bulk food store in Shell Cove from securing a big following.
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Kiama and Shellharbour residents have been quick to embrace Amy and Shane Andersen's alternative-grocery, zero-waste shopping concept, in-store and online.
With two young children and a passion to care for the environment for future generations, the couple wanted to open a business that could make a positive impact on a community scale.
They feel they have achieved that, with The Source Bulk Foods Shell Cove at The Waterfront shopping centre changing the way many locals shop.
The grocery store, which employs five people, stocks 500 whole foods and household goods.
Its focus is on organic, vegan, gluten-free and paleo-friendly products that can be sold in bulk at competitive prices.
Mrs Andersen said with people increasingly seeking an alternative to supermarket shopping, The Source Bulk Foods was unique in its commitment to sustainable and locally sourced products.
The Source Bulk Foods' trademark is a package-it-yourself shopping concept.
Mrs Andersen said customers can scoop produce into brown paper bags, containers brought from home, or purchase glass jars in store.
"We have always tried to do what we can as a family (to help the environment), such as beach cleans," Mrs Andersen said.
"It is something we teach our kids to be mindful about and we are so happy to make waste-free shopping more accessible for others.
"Since opening in February this year we have had a really positive response.
"The store really is an experience to shop in. However, we have found in recent weeks with everything going on our online orders have really picked up."
Mrs Andersen said the team at The Source Bulk Foods Shell Cove hand pack each order themselves for customers to either pick-up or have delivered in the Shellharbour and Kiama local government areas.
"We were doing pick-up prior to to the restrictions and adding delivery was a natural progression for us," she said.
"At the start of lockdown we gained some new customers, and people have made the adjustment from coming in and having a browse to shopping online.
"We still do see people in the store because we are classed as essential. But online has definitely picked up."
For people living in the Wollongong and Wingecaribee local government areas Wendy and Dave Elliott operate The Source Bulk Foods stores in Wollongong and Bowral.
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Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
