While Paul originally hails from a business and marketing background, he set out to develop a grocery store which today operates from what used to be a parking garage. “We opened in 2017… the idea was really born out of a personal frustration, and the need for an alternative way of shopping that eliminated the unnecessary amount of single-use plastic from the regular grocery shopping experience”, says Paul.

Thanks to multiple partnerships, the grocer stocks organic fruit and vegetables which are supplied through urban agriculture. “All the produce that we sell is completely organic and pesticide-free, and is all locally-sourced”, explains Paul. “We are currently dealing with about 7 or 8 different farms as well as an organisation called Umthunzi, who works with small scale, organic growers, and helps them to get their produce and product to market.”

Shoppers arriving at NUDE FOODS are encouraged to bring their own containers, though brown paper bags and consol jars are available on-demand. Additionally, all materials and equipment at NUDE FOODS are themselves reused or upcycled; this includes not only furniture or food baskets but also includes the likes of wooden shelving, cast-iron bowls, and even a second hand point-of-sale system.

An outdoor area offers dining space for plant-based food, where a food truck delivers vegan delights for connoisseurs. “We focus on healthy, plant-based foods. We are famous for our falafel wraps and also offer salads, smoothies, and gluten-free options”, adds chef Britney Varley.