The Eco Basket

17/06/2026

We've been unusually quiet lately...

Not because we've run away.
Not because we've won the lotto..
And definitely not because we've mastered the art of relaxing.

We've been busy doing what independent businesses do best — figuring things out as we go, adapting to the latest hurdles thrown by our government, and turning obstacles into opportunities.

Some things are taking longer than they should. Some things are completely out of our control. Some things seem to move with all the urgency of a snail dragging a caravan uphill.

But that's alright. It seems normal part of society these days and something we just have to always expect.

Behind the scenes tho, there's plenty happening, plenty changing, and loads of exciting ideas slowly becoming reality.

We're just getting ready to make a bit of noise again.

Stay tuned. The best bits are still to come. 👀

08/06/2026

Finally, the letter we've been waiting for.

Small businesses have reached a point where we need to take a stand against an outdated system that those in power have had years to fix, yet very little has changed.

Please take a few minutes to watch the video, share it, and leave a comment. The more people who see it, the louder our voice becomes.

And if you disagree with what's being said, don't just hit the unfollow button—pick up the phone, speak to your local representatives, and ask why small businesses are still being left to carry the burden.

07/06/2026

Some good news at last.

After months of writing letters, reading through legal documents, asking questions, and refusing to accept what we were being told at face value, we've finally received confirmation.

This feels like a huge win for small businesses who are trying to challenge an outdated rates system.

It hasn't been easy, and there were plenty of times when it felt like we were getting nowhere, but persistence pays off.

We'll be sharing a video tomorrow explaining the update and why it matters. Hopefully it encourages other small businesses to keep pushing for answers when something doesn't seem right.

04/06/2026

Interesting investigation into how Stormont MLA's and some elected council members in certain councils are allowing free charging for their vehicles at the ratepayers' expense. What was even more disappointing was how many seemed unable or unwilling to answer straightforward questions, claiming they didn't know.

Meanwhile, many councils have increased rates again this year, putting even more pressure on households and businesses already struggling with rising costs.

From our point of view, it raises the question we have been fighting so long for: what exactly are our rates paying for? Essential services, or perks and freebies that ordinary ratepayers could only dream of? Most people can't afford to fill their car with fuel and they certainly can't plug it in and send the bill to someone else.

If councils and stormont are asking people to pay more every year, then every penny should be properly justified.

Time to stop the excuses and start explaining where the money is really going.

Can it be justified? Commentator Mal O'Doherty and ex-DUP advisor David Graham discuss

02/06/2026

It's already June. Time seems to be flying by, and while there's plenty happening, we've also found ourselves looking back and reflecting on the journey of The Eco Basket and all the incredible people who supported it along the way.

One of those reminders is about to go on the wall.

Over the stint of the shop Barry McGowan Art created a number of drawings for The Eco Basket. From the very first concept ideas, to rebranding discussions, Barry always had a way of taking an idea and bringing it to life with his imagination, creativity and unbelievable talent.

What we didn't know was that Barry had been working on another piece in the background. On our final day, he gifted it to Niall as a surprise. It was one of those moments that stops you in your tracks.

The drawing now proudly hangs alongside the others, telling the story of the journey, the belief people had in what we were trying to build, and how far things came from those early ideas sketched out on paper.

It's also a reminder that every business is a work in progress. You have to keep adapting, keep changing tactics, keep learning, and keep pushing forward.

Thank you, Barry, for capturing so much of our story through your work. Your creativity has become a permanent part of The Eco Basket's journey, and we're incredibly grateful for it.

28/05/2026

We’ve become so used to processed snacks that we forget how good simple food can be.

Dates are naturally sweet, full of fibre, minerals and slow-release energy — without all the additives and processed ingredients found in so many chocolate bars and snacks.

But it’s bigger than health too.

Where our food comes from matters. We believe food should nourish people, not help fund war, conflict or exploitation.

As always, like, share & leave your thoughts below

27/05/2026

Disappointed to learn that a number of our previous videos, posts and pictures relating to council matters, rates, and issues we’ve highlighted before have apparently been reported and removed from social media.

Strangely enough, they all seem to relate to the same subject matter. We’ll never know who reported them, but it does make you wonder if we’ve maybe got under someone’s skin or upset a few people by speaking openly about things. Then again, maybe some people just don’t like looking bad in public.

That’s the joys of social media, I suppose.

Either way, we’ll continue speaking honestly about issues that matter to us and to many others. If anyone has an issue with something we’ve said, pick up the phone and deal with it directly instead of hiding behind reports and removals online.

26/05/2026

OK… a few bits left now and with this perfect weather we’re finally getting the clear out almost finished ☀️

The main thing left is our beloved custom counter — all 4.6m of it. Built from 18mm OSB and solid reclaimed natural wood flooring, this thing is an absolute gem for anyone with a café, restaurant, shop, or even someone building their own bar at home.

It’s got tonnes of storage at the back and was built properly to last. A real one-of-a-kind piece, custom made locally and full of character.

It still needs to be taken apart, but we’re clearing it at £500.

First come, first served. Deposits can be taken to secure it, as unfortunately we can’t hold items anymore due to too many no-shows before.

Send us a message if interested 👌

22/05/2026

The home garden is finally starting to come to life 🌱☀️

A few days of heat mixed with a bit of rain and suddenly everything is shooting up… including the weeds unfortunately 😂

But there’s plenty growing already — fresh lettuce, kale, broad beans (still calling them peas 🤷‍♂️) and more herbs than I know what to do with. There’s something class about stepping outside and picking food straight from the garden.

Still a lot to do, but it’s getting there

22/05/2026

We’re still working our way through the staff thank yous, and somehow once again… we didn’t get a proper photo 😅 This week it’s Cara’s turn.

Cara came on board with The Eco Basket last year and honestly hit the ground running. Coming from the legendary Maggie May's, she brought experience, confidence and a style all of her own into the shop from day one.

Her latte art looked like it had been painted onto the cup, and she was the mastermind behind so many of the drinks and food creations people loved. Including, of course, our forbidden off-menu “Tiocfaidh Ár Latte” — which may or may not have earned us a few angry private emails 😂 but sure, you only live once.

Cara could do it all. Multiple orders, coffees flying out, food on, till going, customers chatting, all without ever needing to ask for help. An unbelievable multitasker and someone who brought her own music, energy and personality into the shop every single day.

But beyond being an incredible staff member, Cara is just an incredible person. Life isn’t always fair, but Cara showed up with courage, strength and resilience that left us all in admiration.

Cara, you’ll be massively missed. Keep being you, never change, keep rocking and thank you for absolutely everything you done for the shop and for all of us in it.

And yes… just like with the rest of the staff goodbyes, the tears definitely came out again.

Niall