O Granel da Sofia

O Granel da Sofia began in October 2020 as a Lisbon store selling everything loose, without packaging. The founders, Sofia and later Tiago, had already built a habit of sustainable shopping and wanted to bring that option to other Lisbon households. The shop grew from an idea into a physical space, and later expanded into an online store at ograneldasofia.pt. The range covers bulk groceries, natural deodorant stones, reusable stainless steel water bottles and a selection of sustainable toys for children, organised by age group. Products come from smaller brands such as Unii Organic, and packaging choices, like a cork holder for deodorant stones, reflect the project's focus on reducing single-use plastic. The physical shop in Lumiar closed at the end of January. The team described the closure as an emotionally difficult process, still ongoing. Customers could keep placing orders through the online shop until the end of February, and the project has continued to operate through its online store and pop-up appearances since then, including a stand at the Mercado de Natal in Campo Pequeno in December. On Instagram, the project has run occasional first-purchase discounts (10% with code SOFIA10) and offers free shipping above €50. It also appears on Too Good To Go, offering surplus food from its listings to reduce waste. The business presents itself as a toy shop and eco shop, treating bulk and sustainable retail as a practical, everyday alternative.