Shop Local: Highgate and Gospel Oak grocer to open Belsize organic store
Grocer Alper Kocer at Goods Grocery in Highgate Road. Picture: Polly Hancock - Credit: Polly Hancock
The former Sylvester Fine Art in Belsize Village is set to become an organic food store.
Shop Local - Credit: Archant
The Belsize Lane shop is due to be opened on November 23 by Alper Kocer, who already has two organic shops, Highgate Wholefoods in Highgate Village, and Goods Grocery in Gospel Oak.
Alper told the Ham&High he was encouraged to expand by soaring trade during lockdown.
“I’ve always supported local businesses, and I trust my friendly neighbours here to also support local shops,” he said.
“Our products have a positive effect on people, and customers always say it’s so nice to have us around.”
Alper Kocer at Goods, his Gospel Oak store. Picture: Polly Hancock - Credit: Polly Hancock
Though he isn’t vegan himself, Alper’s wife Nurcan is, and he said people in the area are increasingly interested in vegan and organic food.
The shopkeeper has lived in London for four years, having moved from Turkey’s capital, Ankara, with his wife. The couple have a 22-month-old son.
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