Meet the entrepreneur behind Portchester's eco-friendly fruit and veg shop

Pickle & Pea opened in West Street, Portchester at the end of last year. It has been set up by Tasha James, 27, from Portchester, who hopes to inspire people to make positive changes to the way they live with her new business.

Tasha said: ‘It was something that was needed in this area, there was nowhere that allowed people to live a more sustainable way of life.

‘We decided that it was only right to give the people of Portchester that option.

‘My love for the planet and getting people to change their way of life is what inspired me.

‘I wanted to give people the option to try that lifestyle but without being forceful. It is a big jump and people need to make that decision in their own time and in their own way.

‘It was my passion and drive and love for the planet that has brought this shop to the community.

‘I love this planet, we are all on it together, so it’s really important to look after it. I want to give people a way to love it like I do by reducing their waste and living a healthier lifestyle.’

Alongside fresh fruit and vegetables, the shop sells plant-based products, packaging free goods such as pasta and spices, and a range of other items such as eco-friendly cleaning products.

Tasha worked in a shop in Fareham town centre for 10 years and became a manager – so she is using her experience to give the best possible customer service.

‘Having my own shop is what I have always wanted,’ she said.

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‘I have always worked for others, and I wanted that for myself. It was my dream to have my own business and be my own boss. The opportunity came up and I thought I would go for it.’

The shop, which was formerly Cutsey Kink, needed renovating when Tasha took over – and she set about painting, decorating and laying new flooring before opening in November.

She said: ‘Everyone has been so supportive and happy about having us here.

‘The feedback from our customers has been overwhelming. It is astonishing how many people wanted something like this to open here.

‘We are unique, we have a niche. A lot of people are starting to realise that shopping locally and sustainably is important.

‘A lot of love and care has gone into this business. I love what I do, it does not feel like work. I hope people will continue to support us.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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