A thriving family firm in Stourbridge welcomed a top politician to learn more about their work to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability.

Eco Maniax invited Dudley Council’s cabinet member for regeneration and enterprise, Councillor Simon Phipps to their zero waste shop in Ryemarket this week.

The company aims to support small businesses in the borough by sourcing ethically made products from local suppliers, including organic vegetables from nearby farms and beer from Beat Brewery and Sadler’s Brewery in Lye.

Shoppers bring their own containers to fill up with items such as pasta, rice, beans, cereal, dried fruits and more. The shop also stocks a wide range of plastic-free goods and hosts courses to further reduce the need for plastic packaging.

The company already provides refills of a range of household cleaning products from UK manufacturer SESI, but is also expanding to supply the recently launched SESI Pro range of products. These are approved with standards for commercial use for Eco Maniax to supply local catering businesses, clinics, schools and organisations who prefer to purchase in bulk and are looking for a more sustainable cleaning solution. Councillor Simon Phipps, cabinet member for regeneration and enterprise, said: 

"Eco Maniax is a great example of a small, family-run business with a heart. It was a pleasure to learn more about their work to reduce plastic waste and encourage a more sustainable lifestyle.

"Their commitment to supporting local suppliers, including many from the Dudley borough, deserves a lot of credit. They offer something unique in Stourbridge and I hope their success continues."

Caz and Dean Barratt, Owners of Eco Maniax, added: "We started our business in December 2019 and it has gone from strength to strength.

"Our customers love that we offer something different and make it easy for them to do their bit for the environment.

"Sourcing products locally is an important part of what we do and we’re proud to be making a difference in the borough. We were delighted that the leader came to visit us to find out more about our work."

Councillor Phipps visited Eco Maniax as part of the Made in Dudley Borough tour, which celebrates businesses in the borough.