North-east Christmas shoppers invited to go green at virtual market

Shoppers across the north-east are being encouraged to participate in a virtual Christmas market experience.

Organised by Kathryn McIntosh, of Inverurie-based re:treat Apothecary, the Aberdeen Eco-conscious Christmas Market will host dozens of traders throughout November and December with a focus on local, sustainable products.

Kathryn said: “While restrictions mean we can’t gather together in person this Christmas, we can come together online.

“Aberdeen City and shire is home to an abundance of creatives making beautiful earth-friendly items, and this marketplace will showcase the very best of them.

“Imagine your local village hall, packed from wall to wall with your favourite local sellers and a host of delights just waiting to be discovered.

“Visitors can expect traditional festive market staples with an eco-friendly twist, and gift ideas like hand-crafted home essentials, natural cosmetic products and organic food and drink. The only thing missing is mulled wine.”

The event has been organised in response to a growing demand for sustainable choices at what Kathryn describes as a ‘wasteful’ time of year.

She added: “The festive period is traditionally a time of overindulgence, but it does not have to be wasteful.

“Over the past 12 months, we have all become more aware of the environmental challenges facing our planet. As we work towards a greener, waste-free future, more of us are choosing vegan or plastic-free alternatives in our daily lives.

“There is clearly an appetite with both shoppers and sellers for a Christmas event of this type. At last count we had reached 50 registered traders – some wonderful crafters, makers and artists from the north-east and further afield.

“While there is an emphasis on small independent traders, we also feature those with bricks and mortar premises. Our town centres have been hit by reduced footfall, and this Christmas our local businesses need our custom more than ever.”

The market is free to attend for shoppers. Vendors wishing to reserve a virtual pitch should email abdnecomarket@gmail.com.

For more information, contact hello@retreataberdeenshire.com, call 07743 182511 or click here.