Online marketplace snaps up eco rival

UPCYCLING emarketplace Remade in Britain has snapped up an eco-friendly rival.

Harrogate-based Remade and its sister company Eco Stores Direct, launched by Donna Fenn, has bought up Nigel’s Eco Stores, creating an even bigger marketplace of environmentally friendly independent retailers.

Nigel’s Eco Store was bought for an undisclosed amount as part of ambitious growth plans since launching in 2014.

Ms Fenna and the Remade in Britain team are aiming to repurpose and reduce some of the estimated 280m tonnes of waste produced in the UK each year.

Independent sellers turn unwanted products into new items to sell on Remade in Britain, and now the site features nearly 3,000 products from more than 300 upcycling retailers selling furniture, clothing, interiors, accessories and gifts.

Nigel’s Eco Store averages around 500,000 visitors a year, and following the deal, a national consumer campaign will be launched in the New Year.
Donna Fenn, founder of Remade in Britain, said: “Nigel’s Eco Stores is renowned for being an innovative, groundbreaking site in championing the green movement and we’re delighted to be taking this next step, giving our retailers a huge audience and selling a range of unusual and innovative environmentally-friendly products that really complement our upcycling values.

“For a company that has only been operating for a year, we’ve had a fantastic time, with a partnership with Grand Designs Live and a host of other vintage and craft fairs. We’ve seen retailer and product numbers continue to rise and have established a great online community of upcyclers, sharing tips, events and supplies. We can’t wait to see what our new venture brings.”

Nigel’s Eco Store was set up by Nigel Berman in 2005 to sell eco friendly, natural and organic products.