Can you tell us a little bit about your shop?
We opened our first Wild Honey store in East Oxford at the end of 2014, and our second, in Summertown, North Oxford, last Summer. Last month, we were awarded Best Independent Retailer at the Natural & Organic Europe Awards.
We pride ourselves on being a community health hub, responding to our customer’s needs and requests in a personal way. We stock a huge range of fresh, organic fruit and veg, local produce, whole foods, vitamins and supplements, skincare and beauty, household essentials, and lovely gifts and treats.
We love being at the heart of our community, getting to know our customers, sharing stories, recipes and health tips.
What’s the best part of owning a health food store?
Our wonderful customers and our fantastic staff! And generally being immersed in health and wellness. Everything that we sell is organic, wholesome and nourishing in some way. This, together with the people that we serve and the passion of those with whom we work, creates a feeling of vibrancy within the shop that just feels great to be around.
What’s the most difficult part of owning a health food store?
All the petty, paperwork-y aspects of running a small business that is probably similar in whatever field one finds oneself. Another challenge is keeping abreast of constantly changing prices in the current climate, and making sure that we are always ahead of the competition both in our prices, and in the choice we offer.
Why do you like to stock Clearspring products?
Clearspring have a great reputation in making excellent quality products at affordable prices, and we are huge fans! So many great things, it is difficult to choose. Current favourites at Wild Honey are your Organic Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil (which we use at home, by the gallon!), yummy Organic Seaveg Crispies and the Organic Matcha, which is very popular with staff and customers alike. And Clearspring’s Japanese range is second to none.
Is there an event/promotion coming up in your shop/village/area that you would like people to know about?
On Saturday, 15 July, we are celebrating our 1st Birthday in Summertown (12 South Parade, Oxford OX2 7JL) with a huge celebration – lots of local producers will be in store, showing off their wares with us, plus discounts, special offers and a general celebration of abundance.
What's your one tip for living a happy, healthy life?
Love, laugh, sing, dance, sleep, and eat plenty of fresh, organic fruit and vegetables. For specific ailments, use only the highest quality probiotics, vitamins and supplements. Stop. Take a deep breath.
www.wildhoneylove.com
