Lancaster is full of not-so-hidden gems, from historical landmarks to community spaces and independent shops.

One adored gem in Lancaster City Centre is Single Step, which describes itself as ‘a radical vegetarian workers’ cooperative’.
We spoke to Single Step to find out more about its incredible offering…

Tell us a bit about your business…
Single Step is a worker’s co-op which is a vegan wholefoods shop and, since being established in 1976, has been at the forefront of zero-waste and vegan revolution. From zero-waste refills to organic veg boxes to delicious vegan chocolate, we have everything you need for your zero-waste, vegan everyday life.

What inspired the beginnings of Single Step?
Single Step was established in 1976, with an intention to be an ethical workers’ co-op and a wholefoods shop, offering a more ethical and meat-free alternative for customers. The name of our shop comes from the ancient Chinese philosopher Laozi: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

What makes Single Step brilliant?
Single Step offers customers a zero-waste alternative for their shopping. From delicious organic fruit and veg to refills of cleaning products, we allow consumers a way to consume more ethically. We also apply these ethics to our workplace with us being a workers’ cooperative, meaning that we can use our own ethics within our working practices.

What can we expect to see from Single Step in the coming months/years?
We at Single Step are hoping to stock even more vegan treats and supplies, allowing our customers an even greater choice in their shopping. We plan to expand our amazing veg box deliveries and, ultimately, be guided by what our customers want to see from us.

Thanks, Single Step!
You can find Single Step at 78A Penny St, Lancaster LA1 1XN

Website: https://www.singlestep.org.uk/