By Klea Gjergji ’23
During the holiday season, it is common that many are busy trying to figure out what to buy for their loved ones. One of the best places to do annual holiday shopping would be from local small businesses. The Ledger had an opportunity to interview a small business known as Unpacked Living Inc., a zero waste store that resides on Cabot Street in Beverly about the importance of shopping small this season. We interviewed Marie Clair, the CEO of Unpacked Living Inc.
What is Unpacked Living Inc., and why was this business started in the first place?
“Unpacked Living is a zero waste Store and refillery that provides sustainable, zero-waste, and plastic-free products sourced from other companies that share our love for the planet. I started the business with the goal of helping people realize the massive plastic-pollution problem we have worldwide and showing them that there’s a better way to be more conscious of the products we consume.”
How do you get people to shop from your business?
“Social media is a big ally, Instagram and Facebook most of all, also connecting with the Beverly community and being part of environmental initiatives like Green Beverly had helped me with exposure. I started Unpacked Living as an online store in 2019 so it already has a strong base of online customers from all over the USA and Canada. Nobody should buy products they don’t need, but my products are necessary for the betterment of the environment and the city and people want to do better once they know better so they just come to my store to learn how to be a more eco-friendly and conscious consumer.”
Why do you think it is important to shop from local small businesses especially during the holiday season and what are the benefits?
“When you shop from small businesses, you help Beverly succeed, strengthen the regional economy – and fight climate change. This is because shopping locally can cut greenhouse gas emissions and waste, plus increase the health and resiliency of our ecosystem.”
If you are stumped on a gift to get someone, stop by Unpacked Living Inc. for an eco-friendly present while supporting your local small businesses.
Image Credit: @unpackedliving on Instagram
Unpacked Living Inc
156 Cabot Street
Beverly MA 01915
