2020 has been especially tricky for small businesses and creative industries and – although thinking about where you shop matters all year round –  many people are particularly considering how to support smaller, independent retailers this festive season. Not only does this help the businesses themselves, but choosing where to spend your money could benefit local communities too.

To help with some ideas on how and where to shop sustainably and with community in mind, we’ve compiled a selection of Triodos customers – all companies that put people and planet at the heart of their business – whose products can spread some cheer this Christmas.

Food & Drink

Christmas is traditionally a time for big gatherings, centred around sharing wonderful food and drink. While we may not be able to gather in numbers this Christmas, there’s still plenty of options for those looking to send loved ones a sweet or savoury treat.

• Cotswold Fudge – Fairtrade, handmade fudge that’s perfect for stocking fillers
• Cafédirect – subscription gifts to keep the Fairtrade coffee aficionado in your life happy for months to come
• Stroud Brewery – beer with full ethical credentials for those who drink responsibly 
• Zaytoun – a choice of gift sets filled with fine produce from Palestine for any foodie friends
• Planet Organic – one-stop shop for organic, natural and sustainable gifts, now delivered nationwide

If you’re able to get out and about, HISBE (Brighton), Unicorn Grocery (Manchester), Jolly Nice (Stroud) and Better Food (Bristol) also offer a wide range of edible treats for those shopping in person.

Health & Beauty

After such an uncertain and strange year, everyone deserves a pamper. There’s lots of choice when it comes to finding gift options that are plastic-free or produced with nature in mind.  

• Neal’s Yard Remedies – award-winning organic and natural products that make great skincare and bath time treats
• Lush – handmade cosmetics with fun shapes and scents, and vegetarian and cruelty-free credentials  

Clothing & Homeware

Finding quality textiles online can be tricky at the best of times. If you’re looking for a cosy present idea, these two small suppliers offer specialist, high-quality products that a recipient is sure to love. 

• Skye Weavers – bicycle pedal-powered Scottish tweeds and garments make beautiful forever gifts
• Pigeon – thoughtfully designed, organic clothing that makes a cute gift for children from new-born to eight years old

Experiences

2020 has been a particularly difficult year for cultural venues. To show your support for these special places, as well as make someone’s Christmas – why not look at gift vouchers to be used in the future?

• Komedia – venues in Bath and Brighton offering comedy, music, cabaret, club nights and just about everything in between
• St George’s Bristol – historic concert hall, offering classical performances as well as international jazz, folk and world music
• Hestercombe – treat someone to a day out surrounded by flora and fauna at these historic gardens in Somerset 
• 9 Trees – support the planting and conservation of woodland on behalf of your family andfriends

Art & Craft

Buying from an independent artist not only supports their livelihood, but also gives a loved one a unique and memorable Christmas present – whether it’s a plant pot, print, jewellery, or anything in between.

Triodos supports a number of artists’ studios – and some of the resident artists are selling works through Etsy or their own website. Why not browse the artists working at Wasps in Scotland or Krowji in Cornwall to see if any of their work strikes your fancy?