Edinburghs first sustainable shop that has 25 recycled robots are celebrating their new location after plans were pushed back due to the Queen's death.
The Leith Collective opened its doors at Fort Kinnaird last month and now the team are making their presence felt by hosting an official launch party, a Celebration of Sustainability, with the help of their recycled robots.
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The sustainable store took up residence at Fort Kinnaird on Friday September 9. However, following the death of HM Queen Elizabeth II, founder Sara Thomson took the decision to postpone all launch celebrations.
But the staff behind the store are now excited to announce she will be throwing open the doors to Fort Kinnaird’s latest addition for a Celebration of Sustainability on Thursday October 6, 5pm – 8pm.
The new store similar to the Ocean Terminal one showcases artists and shop owners across Edinburgh and the Lothians who work with second hand recycled materials.
The launch event is free to attend and party-goers will get a first chance to browse and buy from some of Edinburgh’s most talented artists and makers.
Sara and the team will be there to talk about the steps they are taking to make shopping a more sustainable experience for all. From clothing and jewellery to homeware and toiletries – all the items available to purchase in store are recycled, reclaimed or reloved. In keeping with The Leith Collective’s sustainable ethos.
Helen and Alan of Fisherrow Reflections from sister store, The Clydeside Collective in Glasgow, have created a series of 25 robot sculptures – each lovingly reimagined and handcrafted from old disused objects.
The robots will be hidden in and around Edinburgh, East Lothian and Fort Kinnaird on the day of the launch party for eagle-eyed residents to find and take home.
Those lucky enough to find one are being asked to take a photo and tag The Leith Collective on Facebook or Instagram for a chance to win a prize in addition to their unique piece of robotic artwork.
The hidden robot campaign is the brainchild of Sara who began spearheading her green revolution atThe Leith Collective at Ocean Terminal, which opened in Edinburgh in 2019.
Since then, the store has gone on to earn the title of the UK’s first ever single-use plastic-free shop of its kind and was recognised for its important work at the Surfers Against Sewage Plastic Free Awards. In July 2021.
Opening up about the inspiration behind the robots, Sara explained; “Our resident artists are unbelievably talented when it comes to envisioning new uses for old items.
"We hope these reimagined robots capture the attention of people across Edinburgh and help to raise awareness of the importance of reprogramming our throwaway mentality.”
As well as showcasing the work of local artists, The Leith Collective at Fort Kinnaird also has space for a weekly market which will change each week – from antique markets to vinyl fairs and pop-up food stalls, for example.
The store will also host the Winter Coat Exchange, an initiative which enables locals to donate good quality coats and for anyone in need to take one completely free of charge, no questions asked. It is an initiative which is already proving to be highly popular.
Liam Smith, centre director at Fort Kinnaird, said: “It’s great that The Leith Collective has chosen Fort Kinnaird as its latest destination to open a store.
"As a centre, we are committed to supporting our local community and working towards a more sustainable future. We really admire The Leith Collective’s environment-focused values and products and know they’ll prove popular with visitors!”
The Leith Collective at Fort Kinnaird launch party, a Celebration of Sustainability, will take place on Thursday October 6, 5pm – 8pm. The event is free to attend and the invitation is open to all.
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