Seasonal produce and local sourcing fuel success at Phoenix Shop

With a track record going back over thirty years, the popular Phoenix Shop, within the Findhorn Ecovillage, is currently celebrating the success of its wide range of certified organic produce.

At a time when many household budgets remain restricted, sales of organic fruit & vegetables in the shop have increased by around 60%, demonstrating that the customers who come from all over the local area, and beyond, are prepared to invest in fresh quality produce that offers greater health benefits, as well as supports the livelihoods of local and organic farmers and growers.

Supplied by several local growers who use no synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, including Rising Roots, based in Duffus, Whiteinch Gardens, Roseisle Gardens, Woodhead Community at Kinloss, and Mandala Garden, the shop also receives certified organic produce from two larger businesses, Organic North, based in Manchester, and Organic World from Bathgate in West Lothian.

A huge range of fruit and veg is stocked, featuring approximately 55 different types of vegetables, and 24 types of fruit.

Moving with the seasons, the shop is expecting to have local Asparagus, Spring Greens, and other tender Greens in stock soon, with, of course, the first ripe Strawberries of the season making an appearance when the time is right, and from sunnier climes, peaches, nectarines, apricots and melons.

“At the moment our local Salad Bags are selling super-fast, as soon as the sun comes out!” said David Hammond, one of the shop’s fruit & veg buyers. “Our Scottish Potatoes are delicious too, and are always so popular with customers,” he added.

“Newest stock lines are Asparagus, both green and white, local Rhubarb, and Loquats and Zucchiolo from Spain. If you have haven’t tried these, please do so, they are lovely!”

David went to say that he was: “beyond delighted that our fruit and veg has become such a key part of our offering. It’s fantastic to see the colour, freshness, and variety of our stock as it goes onto the shelves. We are certainly the biggest retailer of organic produce in the North East of Scotland, possibly even wider across the whole country. There’s not much in season you can’t access here.”

David added that the shop was now selling Organic Potted Herbs from Poyntzfield Herb Gardens on the Black Isle. “These are such healthy and vibrant plants, they sell almost as soon as they arrive!”

Often enjoying visits from local growers and producers, who come in to discuss their produce, David stated that it was useful for himself and his team to go out and visit the growers as well.

“It’s really important to engage with growers directly. There is nothing like seeing the plants grow, and finding out more about how these dedicated farmers and producers take care of their land, soil, animals and plants.”

David thanked his customers for their loyalty: “We really appreciate their custom, as this has made it possible to expand our range and make our fruit and veg display so varied, colourful and vibrant. We try and keep our costs as affordable as possible. It’s certainly better for the soil to buy organic, it’s better for bees, biodiversity and our bodies, and it’s good for us as an independent business.”

Taster sessions are a regular offering at the Phoenix Shop.

“We love hosting taster sessions,” said David, “and so do our customers.”

“Recent tastings have included Bogincur Coffee from Fochabers and So Localicious Cordials, Jams, Honey, Aronia Berries from near Elgin. The next one we have planned will feature WAH Tea from Aberdeenshire. These are extra special teas from India that we understand carry the blessings of His Holiness, The Dalai Lama. Taking place on Saturday 30th of May, 11am to 4pm in the Shop, we urge tea aficionados to make their calendars and come along. They may discover their new favourite hot drink!” 

Holding regular showcases of its products, the Phoenix Shop continues to buck the trend in retail, attracting new customers and artisan suppliers, many of whom hold prestigious Great Taste Awards, and other accolades.

Many local people come to stock up on essentials, knowing that they are supporting a committed and ethical business. Along with its wide range of foodstuffs, including groceries, chilled foods, fairtrade organic chocolate, fresh fruit and vegetables, the shop also sells books, crafts, a wide health & beauty range, and cards and gifts.

 Further details www.thephoenix.uk
~ nourishing body, mind and soul ~

www.facebook.com/PhoenixCafeFindhorn

Shop Address: Phoenix Shop, 156 Park Ecovillage, Findhorn, Moray IV36 3TD Phone: 01309 690110
Cafe Address: Phoenix Cafe, Universal Hall, Park Ecovillage, Findhorn, Moray IV36 3TZ

DAVID HAMMOND IS PICTURED WITH ANDREA JOYCE, FRESH PRODUCE COORDINATOR IN THE PHOENIX SHOP