Greencity splashes ethos across HQ

Glasgow-based workers’ cooperative Greencity Wholefoods has added a pop of colour to the city’s vibrant East End with a large-scale custom mural spanning the façade of its Fleming Street headquarters.

Greencity cooperative members say the project is a testament to their ability to ‘work together successfully as a team’ and collectively achieve their goals. Through a process of planning, consultation and voting, Greencity commissioned artists from Cobolt Collective to design and bring to life a unique piece of artwork which communicates the story of their business, expresses their values, represents their team and shares their hopes for the future.

From references to ‘humble beginnings’ and nods to being underdogs or — ‘wee guys punching above our weight’ — the artwork features calls to action for locals such as ‘Wake up’ and ‘Stamp yer feet doon loudly’. Indicative of the members’ belief that ‘Ye cannae fight the good fight oan an empty belly’ the mural depicts several wholefoods stocked by Greencity, including lentils, beans, pulses and baked goods.  

The creation drew the attention of the Scottish Design Awards, which described the mural as bringing ‘a wealth of symbolism’ to the district of Dennistoun.

Designer Erin Bradley-Scott of Cobolt Collective comments on the experience of bringing Greencity’s vision to life: “It was an absolute pleasure getting to know … members of Greencity, who kindly shared stories and memorabilia from the company’s impressive grassroots history, and of their personal experiences working there. Their stories provided a wealth of inspiration which we captured through the use of bespoke poetry (written by Sorley Mackay), playful illustrations, simple geometric shapes, and a contrasting colour pallet. The result is an authentic portrayal of Greencity’s bold, progressive and impactful presence in the food industry. From Cobolt to Greencity, more power tae ye.”

Going into 2025 Greencity will continue its monthly donations to chosen charities — Drill Hall Food Pantry being the next organization set to benefit — and will exhibit at ScotHot (Stand 631; 26-27 February) to offer buyers an insight into the 5,000-strong range of vegetarian, vegan, organic, locally-sourced, Fairtrade, free-from and eco-friendly products it distributes. Helping them convey the benefits of becoming a Greencity customer, Minor Figures and Lemonaid will offer prospective customers hot and cold refreshments and a warm welcome. 

By Rosie Greenaway, editor