50 Years in the Making

01/09/2021

In 2021, we joyously commemorate the 50th anniversary of Essential's inaugural Harvest store opening its doors in Bath. Since that momentous occasion, our dedication to serving wholesale communities and bolstering the local economy has remained unwavering. The journey began with a significant milestone in 1991 when two worker co-ops, Nova Wholefoods Co-operative Limited in Bristol and Bath Wholefood Co-operative Limited, merged, laying the foundation for Essential's remarkable trajectory in the manufacturing and distribution of vegetarian, vegan, organic, sustainable, and free-from products sourced globally.

During the late 1970s and early 1980s, both entities experienced a meteoric rise in popularity. Back then, the landscape for wholefoods distributors and manufacturers was sparse, and these pioneering worker co-operatives swiftly garnered recognition.

As we approach the summer of our 50th anniversary, it's a momentous occasion worthy of celebration. Rewind to 1971, and such foods were often dismissed, with the movement labeled a passing trend. Yet, Essential defied the odds, evolving into one of the UK's most significant co-operative structures. Today, we proudly engage in the import and export of produce across the UK and the continent, steadfastly upholding the pioneering ethos that has defined our journey.

Curious about how Essential Trading embarked on its journey many moons ago? Delve into the trials and triumphs of our founding members during those formative years by clicking here.