Not just a local shop, The Seasons is a family-run business that embodies a philosophy rooted in organic and biodynamic principles, serving as a hub for vegan, vegetarian, and eco-conscious consumers.
WHERE IT ALL BEGAN
The Seasons was born back in 1971 when a local Quaker, Diana Phillips, recognised a real need in the community for healthy organic foods. Since then, the shop has grown and gone from strength-to-strength.
In 2012 John Walden, a longstanding director of the shop, bought the business and was joined by his son Robin a few years late, and he has taken the business well and truly into the 21st century!
By the autumn of 2017, The Seasons moved out of the premises on the Hartfield Road and created a whole new shop on the site of the old vegetable shop in Medway House. The move enabled the company to offer an even greater range of high-quality organic foods all under one roof whilst maintaining their community spirit.
GREEN STANCE & WORKING WITH NATURE
At the core of the company’s values is a commitment to offering customers an extraordinary range of Organic and Biodynamic Foods. They believe that the way to a healthy society is through healthy foods and are a member of the Organic Farmers & Growers Association.
Organic means working with nature, not against it. It means higher levels of animal welfare, lower levels of pesticides, no manufactured herbicides or artificial fertilisers and more environmentally sustainable management of the land and natural environment.
By partnering with local farms such as Cherry Gardens, Balcombe Nurseries, Laines Farm and Emerson Gardens, The Seasons ensures a bountiful supply of fresh, pesticide-free produce. From vibrant vegetables to succulent fruits, each item reflects a dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Moreover, The Seasons pioneers eco-friendly solutions, offering refill stations and zero-waste products to minimise packaging waste. By promoting conscious consumption and supporting ethical suppliers, they strive to create a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.
THE SEASONS WHOLEFOODS BECAME AN OFFICIAL B CORPORATION (OR B CORP) IN TIME FOR ORGANIC SEPTEMBER!
Why is that important? Because going through the B Corp assessment process pushed The Seasons to gather data and evidence that proved Organic food is good for business, as well as your health and the earth.
The Seasons Wholefoods hit important thresholds within the B Corp Impact Assessment, known as Impact Business Models (IBMs).
In a nutshell, IBMs are proof of purpose driving profit.
Buying, selling and championing organically grown food, and in particular food grown on biodynamic and regenerative farms, is at the core of The Seasons mission.
BUT, in order to gain points, The Seasons had to crunch some serious data. It took ages, but what emerged was proof that directly brings this commitment to life:
91% of The Seasons revenues come from the sale of certified organic products.
The remaining 9% comes from the sale of products that do not carry a certification (for various reasons), many are still grown to organic principles.
According to Robin Walden, Director of The Seasons,
“The B Impact Assessment pushed us into tracking and measuring all the good things we do. So, we now have data to show the world that our way of doing business works.”
TRUSTED SUPPLIERS
With over 4,000 carefully curated products, The Seasons celebrates the craftsmanship of local artisans and makers. Through partnerships with like-minded producers, they source high-quality goods that resonate with their values, and who also believe passionately in quality products that don’t cost the earth.
At both shops they offer weekly ‘Taster Days’ & ‘Meet the Maker’ days, where suppliers are invited to come and talk with customers and sample products. By bridging the gap between producers and consumers, The Seasons fosters a sense of community and appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship.
COMMUNITY ROOTS
Beyond being a place to shop, The Seasons is deeply involved in the local community. From sponsoring events to supporting charities, they believe in giving back and building connections. Whether you’re attending a workshop or simply popping in for groceries, you’ll always be greeted with a warm smile and a sense of belonging.
Ready to embrace a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle? Visit The Seasons in Forest Row or Lewes, or take advantage of their delivery and Get bikery (Lewes) services. With their dedication to wellness and community, they’re more than just a store—they’re a beacon of hope for a brighter, greener future.
VEGETARIAN & VEGAN CAFE: THE SEASONS KITCHEN
Just a stone’s throw away from the Forest Row shop lies The Seasons Kitchen. A space where you can eat organic vegetarian and vegan food. Using the best local, seasonal and organic produce, they are open for breakfast, lunch, teas & coffees and freshly made juices. Stay tuned for some exciting new changes that are currently in the works, promising even more delights for our customers.
LOCATIONS
The Seasons: 1-2 Medway House, Lower Rd, Forest Row RH18 5HE
The Seasons Kitchen: 10-11 Hartfield Rd, Forest Row RH18 5DN
The Seasons Lewes: 16-17 Cliffe High St, Lewes BN7 2AH
The Seasons offer delivery services across Sussex.
In Lewes they have partnered with Get Bikery, where you can get your food delivered for free on a bike.
Website: www.seasonswholefoods.co.uk
Instagram: @seasonswholefoods
Facebook: The Seasons Forest Row: https://www.facebook.com/TheSeasonsForestRow/
The Seasons Lewes: https://www.facebook.com/TheSeasonsLewes/
