Town bids farewell to waste-free mall

Tuesday 19 May 2020

A local business promoting waste-free shopping has announced it will be permanently closing its doors as a result of the pandemic.

MiniMall, based on the corner of Halkett and Hilgrove Street, was set up to promote the ‘minimal impact’ lifestyle, offering environmentally friendly products free from packaging – but now the covid-19 crisis has forced the owner to close down for good.

The shop offered whole food in bulk, cleaning and self-care products as well as a self-serve salad bar, coffee machine, orange juicer and a section of children's clothing.

Set up by Sonya Lavery back in the summer of 2018, who set up the waste-free shopping experience out of frustration with the amount of plastic packaging on Jersey shelves. 

Announcing her decision on Facebook, Sonya wrote: “I originally opened MiniMall with the passionate intention of encouraging a more waste-free shopping experience for our little island. I hope we can all recover from this in whatever way is possible. These are tough times and more lie ahead I’m sure, but it won’t be forever and if there are positives to take from this pandemic, it’s the realisation that family, friends and one’s health are really all that matters in life!

“Be kind and look after our precious planet, which appears to be repairing itself, perhaps one of the success stories from this crisis. Hopefully we don’t go back to the wasteful ways of life as before and, instead, start to enjoy the simple things whilst treading softly on our precious mother earth.”

The eco-warrior also thanked her regular customers, her staff and her family for their support in this venture.

The post sparked numerous comments from islanders who were sorry to hear the news.

One user wrote: “So sad to read you’re closing, such an inspiring place to come to. As you say you’ve shown a more sustainable way to shop, so others will follow your example and our way of live improved.”

Another added: “What an incredible company you created! So so sad MiniMall won’t be there, but with passion and creativity like yours, you’ll find another way to have a positive impact on our island.”

Responding to this flood of well wishes, Sonya said: “Thanks for all your lovely comments, it means a lot – nice to know we were doing something meaningful and will be missed – you’ll all be missed too!”

Pictured top: Mini Mall, the latest casualty of the covid-19 crisis. (Facebook/MiniMall)