The Food-ebox is a Christchurch based business that offers a non-contractual weekly or fortnightly subscription of locally sourced fresh vegetables, salads, fruit and much more.

The business's mission?

To encourage well-being, reduce food waste, eliminate the use of plastic in food products and give a helping hand in reducing the local carbon footprint.

The Food-ebox was founded three years ago by Lawrence Camilleri when he joined forces with Gavin of Verwood's local green grocer, Pippins.

Lawrence said: "We started with the food box delivery service as the starting point. It's a non-contractual weekly or fortnightly subscription of locally sourced fresh fruit, vegetables, bread, salads, dairy, meat, herbs and spices and preserves.

"We do not like waste and understand that not everybody likes all the products available, and this is why we offer different size options to chose from. Customers have the ability to adjust their order on a weekly basis, and they also have the option to tell us what they don't like and we will replace it with produce of their liking to the same value.

"We have a range of local cheeses and our meat comes from County Foods, so customers will get restaurant quality food you can’t buy anywhere else.

"Our ethos is to save the planet and not to use plastic in our boxes, apart from when watercress is included. If we receive items covered in plastic, we make sure it comes off before going in the box."

The Food-ebox founders also want to create a hub where they can encourage local residents to lead a healthy lifestyle.

This hub would offer education, recreation and support.

Lawrence said: "The truth is that the majority of the local population believe in the micro culture, environment and economy, but only a very small number support micro businesses.

"Imagine a whole community investing together, working together, promoting together and achieving together.

"My philosophy has always been that if people join forces with small businesses, it will stop the big companies from dictating everything."

The Food-ebox is offering Bournemouth Echo readers a five per cent discount on their products.

To activate the discount, type 'BournemouthEcho' in the discount code section on the site's checkout.

This code will run for two weeks.

To find out more, visit: https://www.thefood-ebox.co.uk/

If you want to nominate a local business for Trader of the Week, email: maya.george@bournemouthecho.co.uk