Show some support for these fantastic independent and environmentally conscious vegan businesses
The enforced lockdown to stop Covid-19 in its tracks has had a devastating effect on the economy, and those most affected are small businesses. There are many independent vegan companies who need our support right now, from animal sweatshirts to sweets and homemade brownies. Here are a few of our favourites who have a fantastic ethos, are environmentally conscious, and strive to help animals.
1. Dandy Sloth
Dandy Sloth’s mission is to ‘rid the world of boring greeting cards and gifts’ and has created a range of fun tote bags, badges, cards, mugs and coasters. One of my favourite designs is the ‘Contents of a Vegan’s Tote Bag’. This handy bag even features the infamous Gregg’s vegan sausage roll which all vegans were desperate to have in their grasp upon its launch. Her designs are vibrant, entertaining and quirky, making brilliant gifts at a time of social-distancing.
Katie has even taken time to create free colouring sheets thanking our key workers during this period and helping to spread positivity in a time of sadness and anxiety.
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2. Big Wild Thought
While not strictly a vegan business yet, Big Wild Thought is definitely one to support. The Sheffield-based operation embroiders animals onto gorgeous sweatshirts and other apparel, with a focus on threatened species. Their aim is to help conservation efforts around the world, and 10% of every sale goes to a relevant wildlife charity.
For example, their Elephant design donates to David Shepard Wildlife Foundation, which helps to secure a future for wildlife in their natural habitat and fights against poaching. Moreover, the products are packaged in recycled cardboard and acid-free tissue paper, making them plastic-free and 100% recyclable. Garments are priced between £10-£53 and are amazing quality, making wonderful gifts delivered to your door.
3. Vegan Daisy Bakes
Based in Kent, Vegan Daisy Bakes delivers delicious vegan sweet treats across the UK, created by young entrepreneur Jess. Costing between £3.00-£7.50, Jess makes a wide variety of baked goods, including exciting flavours such as Party Ring Rocky Road and Triple Chocolate Oreo Biscoff Brownie! Her vegan bakes are packaged in cellulose bags derived from wood pulp which is 100% biodegradable, and posted in 100% recyclable sustainably sourced cardboard. Who knew you could be so eco-friendly while eating brownies on your sofa!
Additionally, Jess donates 5% of her profits to Folly Wildlife Charity which is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of injured, orphaned and distressed wild animals and birds. Treat yourself to some mouthwatering vegan cookies and save animals at the same time.
4. Care Wears
Dubbing herself a rainbow child, Kasia hand-prints fun and colourful vegan designs to create ethical fashion. Care Wears is a one-woman business, and her mission is to demonstrate that ethical clothing doesn’t have to be boring. The online collection features t-shirts, hoodies, tote bags and even stickers and iron-on patches.
Care Wears ships all over the UK, and offers free postage on orders over £50. Some of Kasia’s quirky designs include ‘Tofu Appreciation Society’ and ‘Vegan Girl Club’ while also championing oat milk as the superior plant-based milk alternative.
5. The Punky Bunny
Based in Birmingham, The Punky Bunny creates vegan-themed phone cases, badges, key rings, mugs and prints, available to purchase from her Etsy shop. She hails her designs as ‘Not preachy, not political, just positive vegan vibes’. One of her themes includes the ‘Vegan Witch Club’ with a quirky set of house rules and a variety of vegan related tarot card prints.
All her prints are printed on 100% recycled and biodegradable card, meaning your new wall décor will look stunning and benefit the planet. In addition, Emma donates 10% of her profits each month to Brockswood Animal Sanctuary in Dudley so you know you’ll be supporting a worthy cause.
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6. The Conscious Candy Company
Sweets are essential…right? This 100% vegan company delivers over 80 varieties of sweets to your door. Through their online shop you can buy all your favourite classic sweets – but vegan versions! Smaller bags of sweets are packaged in pink pin-striped paper bags whilst their hefty 1kg bags are packaged in compostable bags made from plant cellulose and will decompose in 23 days.
If that wasn’t enough, you can also order established brands of vegan chocolate such as Moo Free, Vego and even Mummy Meagz moreish vegan rocky road. What’s not to like?