Expression Blog

Community counts, now more than ever. So here is a collection of stories, tips and insights from fellow great independents. Do get in touch if you have a story you'd like to share

The Refillery

In January 2019, Kelly Wright opened The Refillery, a plastic-free and ethical grocery store in Edinburgh. In five years-time she wants there to be Refillery stores across the UK as she launches her franchise opportunity. Here, she tells us what she’s learnt about developing the business, providing a much-needed option for customers and the value of community. “I launched with the aim to make plastic-free shopping more accessible to people. We are a grocery store, not a health food shop, we sel

Happy & Glorious

Happy & Glorious sells British-made gifts, art and homeware online and from its location in Cranbrook, Kent since 2016. Owner Kate Tompsett told us how she’s kept going through lockdown. “Cranbook is a lovely place to be. Our high street is made up of independent shops except for a Co-op and a Costa. Most of the shops have been operating for more than 20 years. I am considered a new kid on the block! I went to school here so know lots of the community and am proud to have passed the three years