Organic fruit and vegetables at packaging free shop in Antwerp

In August 2014 the first packaging free shop opened in Belgium. The Zero Waste Shop is located in Antwerp. The idea came from owner Savina Istas, who wanted to tackle the waste problem at the source. "We do this by minimising the use of packaging in our shop. I studied sustainable sciences and was always very interested in the plastic soup and a way of doing something about it. I was also inspired by Lauren from New York and other people who have been living package free for a number of years. We want to make people more conscious with this shop."

Organic fruit and vegetables
You can buy seasonal organic fruit and vegetables from Robuust, and other fruit and vegetable packages from the local grower. There are also all kinds of foods such as coffee, tea, rice, dairy products, sweets, nuts and grains. Almost all products in the ship are organic and are presented to the consumer in large tubs, among other things. Customers who don't bring their own packaging can buy and fill linen bags, glass bottles and jars for themselves. "Because every customer is different and has different needs, we offer a freedom of choice in every way of buying. Whether it's extra small amounts or extra large orders, we always deliver to size."

More shops
The owner is enthusiastic. "Our customers are mainly double earners who attach a lot of value to organic food and we also regularly get students in our shops. The assortment is extending more and more. We have been active for more than half a year and the reactions are very positive. This gives us the drive to continue. We hope this isn't a fleeting trend and that it will really change the world. If it remains successful, we certainly want to open multiple shops."

For more information:
Savina Istas
Robuust! The Zero Waste Shop
Reyndersstraat 2/1
2000 Antwerpen
0032 (0)491 08 51 54
www.berobuust.com