The General Store first launched at SPARK in 2022, and is a groceries, and a zero-waste supermarket, all rolled into one.

Open Wednesday & Saturday mornings from 9am, the General Store redistributes perfectly good food that would otherwise go to landfill.

The General Store has unveiled its fresh new look to spark conversations around how zero-waste should be as mainstream as a grocery store.

Inspired by fruit stickers and vintage grocery stores, the new General Store branding is here to change the perception of discounted but perfectly fine food which otherwise would have ended up in bins at the supermarket.

The General Store are also looking for new volunteers who can help run the service at SPARK. Supported by their team, you could help out by staffing the store and having chats with our customers. They’re also looking for volunteers to help pick up surplus food from nearby supermarkets in York and deliver them to the General Store!

The £1 (suggested donation) fill a bag means the General Store can provide free food to those most in need. If you’re dealing with food insecurity, reach out to see how we can support you – alternatively, visit our General Store and pick up what you need – no questions asked.

The York Databank, a new service provided in partnership with the Good Things Foundation, means the General Store can provide free mobile data for those who are currently unable to get online and stay connected. Getting online is an essential. It allows people to apply for jobs, to get support & access healthcare. Despite this, many are left behind – and this service will help bring this support directly to local residents.

So whether you want to fight food waste, grab bargains, or even need a bit of support, the General Store aims to be a better way to shop.

A grocery store for the community and planet.