Berlin is leading the way. Are you ready to discover a shop that’s challenging how we consume? Welcome to Original Unverpackt. It is a supermarket that has dared to ditch disposable packaging.
Original Unverpackt opened its doors in 2014. It is located in Berlin. The founders are Milena Glimbovski and Sara Wolf. They envisioned a store where shoppers could buy groceries without creating waste.
Inside Original Unverpackt, you will find over 350 products. These range from fruits and vegetables to dry grains and liquids like yogurt. Even lotion and shampoo are available. The catch is that everything is dispensed into refillable containers. Some liquids come in bottles with deposits. This is already a standard practice in Germany.
The concept is simple. Shoppers bring their own bags and containers. They fill them with the desired amount of product. Then, they pay only for what they need. This reduces food waste. It also cuts down on packaging.
Original Unverpackt was backed by crowdfunding. It is an experiment in ethical shopping. The store sells mostly organic products. Each product is labeled with its country of origin. Brand names are nowhere to be found. The founders were driven by the slogan “Let’s be real, try something impossible”.
The store requires all containers to be disinfected on site. This complies with Germany’s strict sanitation rules.
The founders identified a problem with excessive packaging waste. They wanted to offer an alternative. The store layout is different from typical supermarkets. Bulk dispensers and bins replace the familiar rows of packaged goods.
Original Unverpackt is more than a store. It is a statement. It challenges us to rethink our consumption habits. It reminds us that a zero-waste lifestyle is possible. It encourages sustainable behavior.
Original Unverpackt proves that shoppers are ready for a logo-free experience. Many customers were insecure about bringing their own containers at first. Now, most people understand. It’s completely up to them how they want to design their grocery shopping. They don’t shy away from bringing old rum bottles for their chia seeds or Pringle boxes for spaghetti.
So next time you are in Berlin, come to Original Unverpackt. Bring your own bag. Experience a new way of shopping. It is good for you and the planet.