Refill, Reuse, Repeat! - The Refill Stop
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jessica Brown, owner of The Refill Stop, located in New Westminster, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
The Refill Stop is an eco-minded, package-free soap refill store. Bring your personal containers from home and refill them with dish, laundry, body soap, and all types of house cleaners. We make a difference by sourcing package-free products that eliminate single-use plastics.
Tell us about yourself
Access motivated us to start this business. We think that every neighbourhood should have access to a place where they can reuse their containers, reduce packaging, and refill environmentally friendly products.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Within two and a half years of being open, we have already refilled over 30,000 bottles and curbed the use of thousands of items that would end up in landfills after just one use. Over 50% of the products we carry are locally made. Another 20% is manufactured in other areas of Canada, and the rest from everywhere else.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Putting together a refill store is still a new endeavour. We are always thinking about how to make our services better for our customers because there are still no common systems available to us, so this business involves a lot of creativity!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Do your research. Speak to someone who has been through it to find out where they are successful and where there is a struggle. Take your time doing a budget and business plan. Last, make sure it is something you really value and appreciate before you quit your job. Is it better as just a hobby, or can you see yourself doing this endeavour full time?
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Take your time and try and enjoy the process! It's a wild ride, but find some time for reflection and fun to keep you motivated and your spirits high.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.therefillstop.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therefillstop
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therefillstop/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.