By Phil Klutts
July 19, 2024

Edmond’s first low-waste refillery

Discover eco-friendly products at Edmond’s new low-waste refillery.
Julie Chamberlain and Gena Money, owners of Bulk Refillery (Photo: Brent Fuchs)

In September 2023, Edmond welcomed its first low-waste refillery, a unique business dedicated to sustainability and community well-being. This innovative store offers non-toxic, organic products that are good for consumers and beneficial for the planet. Customers can bring their containers or use one from the community shelf to refill various products, helping to reduce waste and live more sustainably.

But how did this place come into being, and how will it evolve to meet the needs of our community?

A vision for sustainable living

Bulk Refillery, founded by Gena Money and Julie Chamberlain, emerged from a shared desire to live a low-waste lifestyle. Gena describes their mission succinctly: “We are Edmond’s first low-waste refillery. By providing the best ingredients for your body and your family, we also make a difference in the community and the planet by reducing and refilling.”

Julie recalls how the business idea took shape: “In late spring of 2023, my daughter sent me a video of a refiller and mentioned that this business would be a great fit for me. I researched it and reached out to Gena, knowing that she was also conscientious about the products she used. Conversations led to more thinking, and ideas were born into what we have today.”

Building a community of conscious consumers

Since its opening, Bulk Refillery has fostered a community focused on healthier living and reducing waste. “Our goal is to bring back the days of less is more, a simpler time,” Gena says. The refiller offers workshops on making sourdough bread, composting, recycling, and more, aiming to add value to the lives of its customers and promote sustainable practices.

Julie emphasizes the importance of customer interaction: “I enjoy talking with our customers and learning more about them. They share their struggles to find clean products to keep their bodies healthy. People love coming to the store and have wanted this option for a long time.”

Education and overcoming challenges

Both founders agree that one of the biggest challenges is educating people about a refillery and its location. “Our biggest challenge is educating people on what a refillery is, where we are located, and the products we offer,” Gena explains. Julie adds, “Many people are uncertain about this type of business. It is not common to bring your containers to refill and leave with great options that are less waste and better for your body.”

Community impact

Bulk Refillery offers a wide range of products, from bulk grains, flour, and nuts to personal care items and household cleaners. One amusing aspect of their business is their best-selling product: natural deodorant from a tiny goat farm in Tennessee. “You wouldn’t normally think, ‘if it stinks, it sells,’ but in this case, what doesn’t make you stink sells,” Gena jokes.

Both founders are deeply motivated by their commitment to sustainability and community engagement. “When you know more, you do more. I have always wanted to leave something better than I found it,” Gena says. Julie values relationships and the journey of learning and growing: “Success is the ability to learn and grow, moving forward on my journey with intention.”

As Bulk Refillery grows, Gena and Julie are optimistic about the future. They are committed to improving their environmental impact by offering eco-friendly and sustainable options for everyday use. Their success is measured by the growing number of customers who walk through their doors, eager to learn and adopt a low-waste lifestyle.

“We track our refills monthly and see the impact we are making on landfill waste, product consumption, and sustainability efforts,” Gena explains. “Our greatest impact comes each time our door opens and someone is willing to listen to how they can change one small thing that makes a huge impact. After all, we are all better when we work together than apart.”

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About Phil Klutts

Phil Klutts helps businesses and leaders navigate from where they are to where they want to be. His leadership experience spans teams and projects at all levels of organizations, from Fortune 200 companies to startups. As a coach and consultant, he helps leaders gain the clarity and confidence they need to succeed.
Phil is the Managing Partner at Edmond Business and Founder at 405 Leadership Advisors, but finds the most satisfaction in raising his two boys with Tara, his wife of over 17 years. They live in Edmond and stay engaged in the community through church, school, and various other organizations.