Social Supermarket Helps Me Afford Christmas
A visit to the social supermarket has transformed the way families approach their holiday spending, making it easier to afford Christmas celebrations.
How the Re:dish Good Stuff Benefits Shoppers
Yazz Gough, a customer at the Re:dish Good Stuff social supermarket in Reddish, Stockport, Greater Manchester, shares her gratitude: “Thanks to the savings I make on my weekly groceries, I can afford a few extras for Christmas.”
– At 56, Gough is a mother of two teenage kids, who “never stop eating,” making her grocery expenses considerable.
– She mainly purchases fresh fruits and vegetables, which help her create delicious meals like apple strudels, chips, and shepherd’s pie, significantly lowering her midweek shopping costs.
Affordable Coverage for Families
The Re:dish Good Stuff operates twice a week, funded by Stockport Council and local businesses, including Vernon Building Society. For a nominal fee of £5 to join and £4 per visit, members have access to affordable, high-quality groceries. Currently, the supermarket serves approximately 330 members.
– The social supermarket opened in June 2024 to provide economically accessible, healthy food options to residents of Reddish, Heaton Norris, and Heaton Chapel, helping ease the burden of weekly grocery costs.
A Unique Approach to Grocery Shopping
One distinguishing feature of Re:dish is its membership model, allowing access without the need for referrals, making it open to all community members.
– Lynn Brandwood, the CEO of Re:dish, emphasizes this accessibility: “You get shown around by a personal shopper, allowing for friendly conversation and building connections. The savings also mean more flexibility for rent, bills, Christmas gifts, and even a night out.”
A Diverse Selection of Products
The supermarket collects surplus food from large retailers and wholesalers, which is crucial in reducing food waste.
– Weekly selections vary based on availability, including seasonal items that might not sell well at traditional supermarkets. For instance, they often stock seasonal goods like ice cream, especially during colder months when sales decline.
Sue Bredbury, another member, highlights her experience: “I recently picked up luxury items like strawberries and ice cream, but the vegetables here really enable me to save money. Paying £4 for the bulk of my week’s shopping is just incredible.”
Emphasis on Fresh Produce
The Re:dish Good Stuff focuses on providing fresh produce and frozen items for creating nutritious meals. Mandy Carter, a satisfied patron, notes the diversity in available produce each week, from potatoes to tomatoes, perfect for soups and hearty dishes.
– At 69, she expresses her relief: “It helps me a lot. I don’t stress about turning on the heating to keep my home warm, and I can live comfortably.”
Conclusion: A Community Resource for the Holidays
The Re:dish Good Stuff social supermarket is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a vital community resource that empowers families to enjoy the holiday season without financial strain. By making nutritious food affordable, the supermarket is helping shoppers like Yazz, Sue, and Mandy celebrate Christmas with joy and ease.