Can Museum Shops Go Plastic-Free? Inside Manchester Museum’s Eco Revolution

When Manchester Museum reopened its doors in February 2023 after a £15m transformation, it was more than just a fresh look. The museum embraced a bold new mission: to build understanding between cultures and foster a more sustainable world. Guided by its values of inclusivity, imagination, and care, Manchester Museum has taken its commitment to sustainability to every corner of its operations—including the gift shop.

A New Era for Museum Retail

The museum’s stunning new shop, designed by Lancashire-based Artistry House, now sits prominently on the ground floor. Its transformation reflects a deeper ambition to create a space that aligns with the museum’s values. Visitors will find products inspired by the museum’s diverse collections, made by local, sustainable, and inclusive suppliers.

Emma Gittins, Manchester Museum’s Buyer and Product Developer, spoke about the shop’s new approach at the Green Museums Summit, highlighting how cultural institutions can lead by example.

“One of our main objectives was to eliminate single-use plastics, particularly in children’s toys,” Emma explained. This focus has required bold decisions, including the removal of best-selling plastic products to make way for innovative, eco-friendly alternatives.

Sustainable Shopping for All

Affordability has remained central to the shop’s strategy. From entry price points as low as 50 pence to high-quality Fair Trade items, the shop offers something for every budget. A key focus has been the children’s section, traditionally an area dominated by single-use plastic.

“We’ve replaced plastic products with sustainable materials like bamboo, natural rubberwood, and recycled fabrics,” Emma shared. Plush toys are now made from recycled materials, while creative play items use paper instead of plastic. Even traditional “dump bins” for children’s toys have been reimagined with sustainable yet fun options.

Championing Local Makers

Reducing transportation emissions is another pillar of the museum’s retail sustainability strategy. Wherever possible, the shop collaborates with local makers from Manchester and the surrounding areas. These partnerships not only support the local economy but also help the museum minimise its environmental footprint.

For example, local candle company Old Man & Magpie has created bespoke scents inspired by the museum’s collections, while Little Northern Soaphouse produces herbarium-inspired soaps. Even offcuts from sofas and boots are transformed into unique products by The Hide Ranger, a Manchester-based designer.

“Working with local makers allows us to offer beautiful, sustainable items while paying fair prices,” added Natasha Pedersen, the museum’s merchandiser. This fair pricing model ensures that the makers are compensated upfront, reflecting the museum’s values of care and inclusivity.

A Sustainable Future

The museum’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond product sourcing. Packaging has been overhauled, with a move away from cello wraps to compostable sleeves or no wrapping at all. Clothing ranges, including organic cotton T-shirts and tote bags made from recycled plastic bottles, showcase how even souvenirs can be environmentally responsible.

Emma and her team have also introduced products made from innovative materials, such as notepads crafted from recycled coffee cups and bamboo-based magnets. Exhibition merchandise, like the Golden Mummies collection, features recycled leather and organic cotton, highlighting a commitment to thoughtful design.

Educating Staff and Visitors

Sustainability isn’t just a behind-the-scenes effort. The museum actively trains its retail staff to share the stories behind the products, from their origins to their environmental impact. By engaging visitors with these narratives, staff can encourage them to make informed, sustainable choices.

“Many visitors assume that beautiful, well-displayed items must be expensive,” Natasha noted. “But our staff can guide them to affordable, eco-friendly options, proving that sustainability doesn’t have to come at a premium.”

A Museum Retail Success Story

The shop’s first nine days of trading brought in over £47,000 in net sales, demonstrating the commercial viability of its sustainable approach. Notably, sustainable products like children’s bamboo notebooks emerged as bestsellers, underscoring the demand for eco-friendly options.

Manchester Museum’s retail strategy exemplifies how cultural institutions can lead the way in sustainability. By combining thoughtful design, local collaborations, and a commitment to education, the museum has created a shopping experience that not only delights visitors but also aligns with its mission to care for people and the planet.

Whether you’re visiting to explore the museum’s world-class collections or simply looking for a meaningful gift, Manchester Museum’s shop is a shining example of how sustainability can inspire positive change.

Emma Gittins, Natacha Pedersen and Hannah Hartley from Manchester Museum shared their work at the Green Museums Summit 2024. If you can’t make it to Manchester, you can access their shop online here.