More and more people are becoming aware of the need to give gifts that have a positive impact on the environment and the communities that produce them. If you'd like to give an ethical present to your loved one, Indigo is a great place to look. We chatted to Josh Knight, who runs the business with partner Sarah (and their dog, Otto!)
Tell us about what you sell
We see ourselves a mini ethical department store, so: men’s and women’s clothing made from natural fabrics, babywear, gifts, homewares and, new this year, a growing zero-waste area.
How long has your business been going?
11 years. Indigo has evolved very organically – Sarah began importing things from India and selling at fairs, markets and festivals. We kept being asked if we had a shop!
What do you like best about being based in Oxford?
We love living in such a culturally diverse and green city, which has plenty of conscientious consumers.
And also, being the city that it is, we meet people in the shop who are travelling from all over the world, be it for leisure or work.
Do you think Oxford is a good place to run a small business?
We haven’t run one anywhere else, so it’s hard to know! I think we probably face similar challenges to other small businesses based elsewhere.
What is good is the network of people and businesses, offering exciting things for our community.
Independent Oxford have provided invaluable support in this way, in bringing people together.
What's the best thing about running a small business?
We get to decide what happens on all levels, and co-create something. We have real contact with people that come into the shop, and our suppliers and producers. Also, being in a web of ethical businesses gives us a real sense of all being in it together, which is necessary in these times.
What’s the biggest challenge?
Making it viable; looking after ourselves in the running of it; keeping on top of all the admin and little things that need attending to, in order to keep the energy flowing.
What's the funniest thing that's happened in the shop?
Our dog Otto getting a bit too friendly with Star Wars actress Daisy Ridley...
What’s your favourite product?
That’s a bit of a hard one, but I would say it’s the upcycled cashmere gloves. We loved that the jumpers are being given a new lease of life - and they are so cosy! And because they come in a variety of colours, there’s something for everyone.
Is there anything else you’d like to highlight? Christmas in Indigo is very magical, it’s like the spirit of Christmas really comes alive.
It’s a cosy and warm space to find a gift for those people who are important in your life. We feel it helps bring back the heart and joy into this time of year.
Next year we hope to be running workshops and doing more collaborations (so keep an eye on our website for news!)
Welcome to Daily Info’s 2023 Advent Calendar – 24 days of festive tips, free activities & local shopping suggestions!
This year's calendar offers a mix of Christmas suggestions, taking in traditions in Oxford and the wider area, and free activities & events in the build up to the big day.
