Leith’s repair and reuse hub, The Edinburgh Remakery, officially reopens its doors to the public this week in its new premises in Ocean Terminal Shopping Centre.

This new space, which is three times the size of its previous location on Leith Walk, will play host to repair and reuse workshops, free community clubs for marginalised groups, donation points for old electronics, and, in the coming months, sales of refurbished electronics and repaired furniture, and repair appointments.

Whereas the old Edinburgh Remakery was known for its homemade pallet shelving and ramshackle charity shop-esque interior, their latest reincarnation is contemporary, open-plan, well-lit and spacious, decked out with installations by local artists and inspiring colourful displays, all carrying the message of sustainability and circular economy.

The growth of The Edinburgh Remakery is a prime example of the explosion of social enterprises across Scotland which are successfully meeting the needs of their communities and customers whilst also tackling prominent environmental and social issues. These past few years has seen growing public awareness around the climate crisis lead to a change in consumer habits where preference is for more ethical and eco-friendly products and services.

The Edinburgh Remakery provides solutions for both businesses and members of the public who are looking to buy ethically, are striving to reduce their waste and carbon footprint, adopt more sustainable lifestyles, or want to learn creative, practical skills in repair and reuse.

The official launch of the new Edinburgh Remakery took place on Friday 25th February with an opening speech being given by Lorna Slater, MSP for Biodiversity and Circular Economy.

Circular Economy Minister Lorna Slater said:

“The Edinburgh Remakery is a great example of the circular economy that we want to create in Scotland. By encouraging reuse and repair, they are cutting down on waste and emissions and providing a real benefit to their local community. By reusing and repairing products, we don’t just help the climate – we can also help create new economic opportunities here in Scotland.”

Further supporting green jobs and growth, The Edinburgh Remakery has hired 5 new staff members, taking their small team from 11 to 16. Three of these new employees have joined through the No One Left Behind scheme from the City of Edinburgh Council.

As of Monday 28th February members of the public can visit the Edinburgh Remakery and explore their new shop in Ocean Terminal, to drop off their old electronics, find out more about their workshops, community clubs, refurbished furniture, and second-hand electronics. They can get advice on how to become more sustainable to reduce their waste and carbon footprint, and play their part in developing the circular economy.

Opening hours are currently Monday-Friday 11am-3pm with plans to extend these in the coming months.