The change was definitely eye-catching. The Granby branch has had a makeover in recent months to the great pleasure of dozens of customers who came to celebrate its reopening and discover the variety of fresh, ecological and bulk products. Tastings and gifts enhanced the great celebration.
“I am very happy to see our business celebrate its fifth anniversary, despite all the challenges experienced by bulk grocery stores over the past year. We are proud of our place,” admitted owner Isabelle Guilmain.
Bulk buying has not been immune to the jolts of inflation and widespread increases in product prices. For their part, the grocer and her team have stayed the course thanks in particular to loyal customers and a unique offering of local products.
Despite the high winds, Orange coco has become “the largest eco-responsible business in Quebec”. In just five years, he has sold more than 140,000 kg of dry food and 100,000 liters of bulk household products. The business helped eliminate 50,000 containers per year.
“This is our greatest pride, reducing waste one at a time.”
— Isabelle Guilmain, owner of Orange coco – life in bulk
No need to adopt the zero waste habit according to the lady. She believes that a small change in consumption habits is enough to make a big difference for the planet. Ordinary people can go to the store once a month to buy detergent in bulk. This simple action is enough to eliminate a few containers used per year.
“We can also give the example of spices used more rarely. For my part, it’s thyme. Instead of buying a jar that loses its freshness over time, you can visit the grocery store for the quantity needed for just a few recipes.”
The future looks positive overall for the small business and its owner plans to focus more on education and awareness. Among the general public, she particularly wishes to address questions relating to waste reduction, the benefits of ecological household products and the consequences linked to consumption habits.
“I gave a conference at a company at the beginning of the year on household products and I noticed that there were a lot of unanswered questions. Proof that among people, there is a place for education linked to bulk,” she judged.
“It is an economical habit that reduces food loss. By the same token, it allows people to try new products.”
— Isabelle Guilmain, owner of Orange coco – life in bulk
A restructured offer
The local grocery store recently faced another major challenge. Last February, the facilities suffered the consequences of water damage which forced work to be carried out over several weeks. Isabelle Guilmain took the plunge by restructuring her business.
Bulk products have been featured at the entrance to the branch since the major renovations. (Nicolas T. Parent/La Voix de l’Est)
“We have innovated to make our installations easier to use. We have set up our fridges in the renovated section, at the back, and grouped our bulk products in one place at the entrance. Everything is now clearer and more refined. We have only received good comments from customers,” she assured, obviously proud of the result.
Regulars and the curious can find an abundance in bulk and items from more than 220 local producers and artisans. Fruits and vegetables, prepared meals, local alcohols… everything is designed “to encourage local purchasing and introduce consumers to local flavors and attractions”.
