Totes Eco was established by Natalie and Vanessa, two sisters born and raised in Hartlepool and flying the flag for eco-friendly products. They sell handmade, eco-friendly items for the home from their Bovis House store. The sisters are committed to providing the people of Hartlepool affordable environmentally friendly products and plastic free alternatives. We chatted with Natalie and Vanessa about the importance of shopping locally and their favourite Hartlepool-based businesses. 

Describe your business in just three words

Eco-friendly, affordable, positive.

Where will your business be in 5 years time?

Hopefully a bigger better shop in Hartlepool centre.

Why is it important for people to shop local?

Shopping local is hugely important to support the local economy. Shopping locally means customers get more value for their money and develop a deeper relationship with businesses around the town, helping one another and creating a tighter knit community.

How has the pandemic impacted your business?

The COVID pandemic like most businesses has affected us a lot. We went very quiet during the first lockdown when businesses were closed and since then people’s shopping habits have changed to shopping more online. The statistics said the high street was dying as generations changed and online became easier to access but COVID has definitely sped up the process of people going to online instead of high street.

What do you love most about running your business?

We love meeting new customers and other business owners getting to know their journey and helping them make better choices for the environment.

Who is your favourite Hartlepool based business?

Natalie’s favourite Hartlepool business would be Plantopia and Vanessa’s favourite would be Louise Robinson Ceramics. We would also like to mention Lyla Belle‘s Cafe, who we love to visit and The Simple Weigh who is also an eco business encouraging Hartlepool to make conscious decisions to help the environment.