Eat 17 has introduced a number of measures in its Bishop’s Stortford store to reduce plastic wastage.

The independent Spar retailer has replaced plastic straws with paper alternatives, brought in reusable bamboo coffee cups, and introduced refill stations for laundry detergent, washing up liquid, wine, cereals, nuts and grains.

It plans to introduce the measures in its other three stores, based in London and Kent, as well as its two new stores planned for Hammersmith and Leytonstone this year.

A fresh organic milk refill station is also earmarked for the Bishop’s Stortford store in the summer.

Eat 17 has also introduced plastic-free bouquets in its Hackney in-store florist - Edie Rose. All bouquets are tied with string and delivered across the capital on a cargo bike to save fuel emissions.

Brand manager Saskia Parks said the plastic reduction measures were already proving popular with Eat17 customers.

“Our customers are definitely looking to be eco-friendly and are making efforts not to buy pre-packaged foods and use disposable items such as coffee cups,” she added.

“Our customers are happy to have the option to buy what they need without having to buy the plastic packaging as well.

“We now have our sights set on expanding our refillable services to include other convenience products in the future such as milk which we are launching soon.

“It’s fantastic to see these measures being so warmly welcomed by customers and by listening to their feedback we hope to find many more innovative ways to reduce plastic consumption and make a positive impact as a retailer.”