In these uncertain times, it’s now more than ever so so important to support local, independent businesses. With so many having no options but to close up shop, many have chosen to move online or trade in different ways. In order to sustain the businesses, support livelihoods and protect our beloved high street in the months to come, try and make shopping locally a priority.
Here are just a few wonderful, small businesses to support in and around York!
Bish Bash Pot
For any arts and crafts lovers, Bish Bash Pot are the heroes of York’s pottery painting scene. The studio creates a social space to share their passion for pottery painting and inspires creativity in their customers, young and old.
For me, pottery painting is a therapeutic and fun experience, that takes you away from your phone and grounds you in the moment. Finding yourself sat silently for hours whilst creating a masterpiece can be refreshing and a calming experience. With their closure, Bish Bash Pot are now offering home delivery in York and a 5-mile radius paint at home kits, giving you the chance to paint a pot at home, alone or as a family activity. Make sure to contact the shop if you are interested.
Botanic York
York’s urban jungle sadly closed its door to the public yesterday to help protect our community. Announcing on their insta last night, they said they are taking this closure as an opportunity to undertake a spring clean and stock take. So, whilst the shop remains closed for trade the staff are still working tirelessly! Why not buy them a coffee for their hard work?
If you are a plant lover like me, any trip to Botanic is always a special treat. Kind and knowledgeable staff, lots and lots of plants and of course beautiful plant pots, Botanic has quite the reputation in York.
But fear not, Botanic is currently developing an online shop to continue trading in this uncertain time. Look out for and follow their Instagram for the launch of their new online shop, and don’t forget to add a plant to your basket!
The Bishy Weigh
With chaotic supermarkets and stockpiling rife, now is the time to consider buying necessities from your local independent businesses. The Bishy Weigh, on Bishopthorpe Road, store hundreds of ingredients, household items and toiletries all ethically produced to reduce food and plastic waste. In a time where supermarkets are rationing products, consider buying consciously and from independent businesses instead.
For those in isolation, the shop is attempting to start a delivery service for those vulnerable and now isolated in the community. Make sure to keep check their social media to find out more about their future delivery service.
Dog and Bone
Stepping inside this shop, you are instantly hit with a wave of nostalgia. With a vast array of vintage peices all handpicked, you never know what gem you may find when you visit, and you never fail to walk away without a smile. From their banging store playlist, to their stylish mannequins Dog and Bone never disappoints.
Taking this time to add new garments and to visual merchandise the store, Dog and Bone are planning to move their beloved shop online, in an aim to sustian their admirable business. Make sure to follow this on social media and their website, and to browse their wonderful array of of unique and sustainable pieces when it launches.
Duttons For Buttons
Another shop for the craft lovers out there! Duttons for Buttons is a fabulous local shop selling all the needlecraft products you could imagine. Don’t be fooled, buttons are just the start of this shop’s product range! From workshops to a well-stocked haberdashery, this store is a sewing lovers dream.
With what it seems may be ample time at home, why not consider taking up sewing, from cross stitch to embroidery, you’re sure to find something you enjoy? Their online shop sells exclusive items, such as vintage buttons, make sure to check it out.
Brew and Brownie
Would this be my blog post without mentioning perhaps my favourite cafe? Brew and Brownie have closed their doors following government advice. However, in an initiative Brew and Brownie are now taking orders online or over the phone for delivery, so you can enjoy their delicious food from the comfort of your home.
Recording the 35% fees for outsourcing delivery, Brew and Brownie have chosen to delivery themselves, with volunteer help. If you fancy a pancake stack at home, or maybe a couple of their infamous brownies, you know what to do!
These are just a few of the many independent store in York. Importantly, supporting these businesses is crucial to their survival considering the uncertain times ahead. If you’re considering shopping online or doing a food order, then why not check first if your local shops are trading online and be kind in this anxious time.
Eleanor Margaret 