From Manchester United to Zero Waste Shopkeeper: Richard Eckersley’s Unconventional Post-Football Career
Who says former footballers only end up coaching or commentary work? Richard Eckersley, a former Manchester United defender, has chosen a very different path post-retirement. After kicking the ball for the Red Devils and other clubs around the world, Eckersley has opened a revolutionary zero-waste shop, Earth.Food.Love, in Totnes, Devon, with his wife Nicola.
The UK’s first zero-waste shop, Earth.Food.Love, is a remarkable venture that has Eckersley and his wife leading the charge against plastic waste. The shop allows customers to bring their own containers, eliminating the need for single-use plastics. Not only does this innovative concept reduce waste, but it also promotes sustainability and responsible consumption.
Eckersley’s passion for the project stems from his vegan lifestyle and commitment to reducing plastic waste. His other entrepreneurial venture, ReRooted, produces plant-based milk drinks that are transported across the UK. His desire to invest in the community and create a positive impact led him and his wife to make the bold move from Manchester to Devon.
In an interview with the Manchester Evening News, Eckersley shared the inspirational story behind Earth.Food.Love: "We sat on the beach… and said that we wanted to make this our home. We wanted to invest back into the community… The idea of a shop came about… and initially the idea was that it was going to be a wholefoods shop. There was already a wholefoods shop in Totnes, and we thought about what else we could do that makes us unique. The idea of a zero-waste aspect wholefoods shop was unique… and would draw people in."
The couple’s perseverance and dedication to their project have paid off. Since opening their shop eight years ago, Eckersley and his wife have established a thriving business that showcases their commitment to sustainability. Their success serves as an inspiration to others, proof that with determination and innovative thinking, even the most unconventional ideas can become reality.
So, what can we learn from Richard Eckersley’s journey?
- Don’t be afraid to take risks and think outside the box.
- Passion and dedication can overcome any obstacle.
- Community investment and sustainability are vital for a better future.
- Even former footballers can make a positive impact beyond the pitch!
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