An Angus businessman who claims to have opened the first fully vegan shop in Scotland has celebrated a near sell-out start to his venture.
Gavin Starrs, 23, described Redshift in Murray Street, Montrose, as a “one-stop shop” that caters for the growing number of people who are vegans.
Vegans live a totally plant based lifestyle, which involves not using animal products such as leather.
Mr Starrs said the vegan movement is on the rise, although many people are trying “vegan days” initially instead of completely switching to the lifestyle.
He said: “It’s a massive honour to be the first vegan shop in Scotland and everyone is welcome.
“We have had a great response from the public and, after the first day of trading, there was hardly any stock left.”
Mr Starrs described the prospect of opening his own shop as “quite terrifying” but believes Montrose is an ideal location for shops offering something a “little bit different”.
The young entrepreneur, who has previously worked in a restaurant and supermarket, said items for vegans can come with large price tags.
He said supermarkets offered limited product ranges and often priced vegan-friendly products like luxury items.
Redshift also sells a range of ethical non-food items including beauty products, toothbrushes, biodegradeable wipes and moisturiser.
“We aim to be a one-stop shop offering goods at reasonable prices and where people don’t have to continually read the label to check that the product is suitable for their lifestyle,” he added.
In a bid reduce the reliance on plastic, the business offers a refill service for cleaning products, where customers bring in their own container.
Mr Starrs said: “More and more, people are looking at being vegan as a sustainable way of living.
“I’ve met a number of people who have felt a range of health benefits after becoming vegan.”
