Staying sustainable in the face of rising costs: we love a challenge!

Doesn’t it feel like all we’ve been hearing about lately is ‘cost of living’ this, ‘inflation’ that, not to mention all things climate crisis! Thankfully we work surrounded by 450 bottles of 100% sustainable wines ready to be uncorked at the end of a hard day to allow ourselves a moment to switch off and take simple delight in one of life’s little pleasures – a glass of the good stuff. 

Yes, times are challenging right now, especially for the hospitality industry where new alcohol duties, rising fuel prices and other costs are taking a toll BUT you don’t set up six neighbourhood wine bars without enjoying a challenge so we’re here for it and, in the midst of it all, are doubling down on our commitment to all things sustainable. 

Wanna know how? Grab a glass and settle in!

Any business takes more than its fair share of a toll on Mother Earth and we’re keen to offset our impact whenever and wherever we can. Yes, we're recycling like champs at all our neighbourhood spots, but that’s the bare minimum that should be expected, right? We’ve also waved goodbye to polystyrene packaging and its colossal carbon footprint. Our Executive Chef? He's not just your regular kitchen whiz; he's the UK's first and only 'green manager'. He’s worked hard to get an environmental sustainability management course under his belt, and he's leading the charge – reducing our water usage by 20% since 2021 and driving our mission to shrink electricity usage by 10% by the end of the year. 

When it comes to future of our planet, we’re not all take, take, take. We also like to put something back. Our tree project has now seen over 10,000 gorgeous, life-sustaining trees planted, with plenty more to come. 

Now, let's talk people. We're all about the human connection, from the producers we do business with to our superstar employees who make Humble Grape what it is. Our sustainable super squad works together to ensure the deliciousness we’re delivering comes from the best possible sources and is produced, prepped and plated-up in the most sustainable way. And we don’t just focus within our own walls, our team is always out and about, giving back to the community, spreading the love, and helping charities do their thing.

Whatever you order from our menus, you can feel smug it’s stamped with sustainability. We use free-range, locally-sourced, seasonal, organic produce not just because it’s the right thing to do but because there’s simply no competition when it comes to quality and flavour! Partnerships with innovative carbon-negative suppliers like Cheese Geek are a joy and ensure we’re always learning something new from other passionate foodies about how to better our own business. 

So there you have it, our journey in a nutshell. Through economic twists and turns, we're showing that sustainability isn't just a buzzword – it's a way of being. Thank you, our customers, for being a part of our growth and helping us do our bit to ensure that the future remains bright. Cheers!