Your everyday choices power the Blue Patch community. Shop small is a key part of our mission to connect sustainability-minded business with conscious consumers and power the UK’s transition to net zero through funding projects like community energy projects and our own carbon reduction for small businesses programme.
Why now?
The pressure is on UK independents. Those that are in shop premises are seeing rising costs with rent and utilities increasing. Those who employ staff are seeing staffing costs rising. All our independents are facing competition from online giants. There is a risk that we will lose the choice between local creativity and generic imports.
Every pound spent with a small ethical business has a multiplier effect. It increases jobs and employment for sole traders, business for local supply chains, and it is better for the environment.
That’s why Blue Patch exists. It is more than a business directory. It is a community of sustainability-minded businesses who are working to innovate and find creative ideas to reduce carbon emissions. They provide cleaner products and services for those who want them – whether that is home, food, fashion, beauty, or leisure.
We’re also a not-for-profit and 100% of our surplus funds goes into projects like our carbon reduction training or community energy, backing Britain’s energy transition.
What shopping small looks like
Shopping small doesn’t only mean popping to your local shops or buying from other local residents – although we would encourage you to do that, especially if you live near an ethical high street shop like Hoos in Glasgow or Forget Me Not and Green and Jarr Market, both in Herne Hill – it can also mean choosing a product or service from one of the talented suppliers in our directory.
Swap out your big and small purchases, whether you are looking to redecorate and need furniture, renovate and need help with heating or construction, or want to swap an everyday item like coffee, cosmetics or buy better food, you can find it here.
The money you spend has a ripple effect, our community supports their local community – many of them donate surplus funds like we do into community projects that are close to their hearts. There is an environmental impact as, in addition to low carbon products, some of the businesses pay into schemes to fund renewable energy, tree planting, or land regeneration projects.
Try it out by swapping one purchase this month, using an alternative from our directory or your local high street. This can be a small swap that will have a big impact. And don’t forget to leave a review if you love the product/service. Or share it on social media. The small businesses that we support are always grateful for any support that increases their visibility.
You are welcome to spend time exploring the products and services in our directory section. We also send out regular updates with featured products or services, so sign up for our newsletter to receive these straight into your inbox. And join Blue Patch if you run an ethical business. Everyone in our community supports our work, building a low carbon economy, one small purchase at a time.