What is the Cone Exchange Project?
At its core, the Cone Exchange is all about seeing potential where others might just see waste. It’s the flagship community project of Bettys & Taylors Group, dedicated to repurposing waste materials from businesses and generous donations from the local community. Simply put, it’s about turning trash into treasure. This initiative not only raises funds for local good causes but also builds a strong sense of community and helps people develop new skills along the way.
Main Benefits of the Cone Exchange
So, what makes the Cone Exchange stand out? Here are some key facts and figures that highlight its impact:
- Started over two decades ago, inspired by a simple school visit to a tea and coffee factory.
- Partners with 25 local businesses to repurpose their waste materials.
- Provides valuable resources for local crafters, schools, and playgroups.
- All proceeds from sales go directly to supporting local good causes.
- Supports social enterprises and charities by offering meaningful work experience for young people with additional learning needs.
The Spark Behind the Idea
The Cone Exchange all began with a spark of genius from its founder, Chris Powell. Passionate about the three R’s—reduce, reuse, recycle—Chris was inspired by a schoolboy’s curiosity during a factory visit. The boy spotted a cardboard cone in the waste pile and asked if he could take it home to make a Christmas angel. That simple moment sparked something big. Within weeks, over 500 angels were made and sold, with the proceeds helping to set up a school gardening club in partnership with Starbeck in Bloom. It was a clear sign of how repurposing waste could benefit the community—and that’s how the Cone Exchange was born.
What You’ll Find at the Cone Exchange
Walking into the Cone Exchange shop is like stepping into an Aladdin’s Cave of materials. The stock changes daily but typically includes fabric off-cuts, boxes, paper, hessian sacks, wool, plastic tubs, and more. It’s a treasure trove for hobbyists, crafters, and gardeners alike. Beyond the shop, the project supports social enterprises and charities by repurposing waste and equipment, while also providing meaningful work experience for young people with additional learning needs. Plus, the team regularly attends events and gives talks to encourage recycling and raise funds.
How the Cone Exchange Helps the Community
Every penny raised from the shop’s sales is donated to local social enterprises. Notably, the project supports Horticap, a charity offering horticultural experience for adults with additional needs, and the Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust, which focuses on tree planting and preservation in Yorkshire. This reflects the Cone Exchange’s deep passion for the planet and its commitment to making a positive environmental and social impact.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – by repurposing waste materials.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – supporting tree planting and environmental preservation.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – through partnerships with organizations focused on tree preservation.
- SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth – providing meaningful work experience for young people with additional learning needs.
- SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities – fostering community engagement and local good causes.
Where to Find the Cone Exchange
The Cone Exchange is located at Hookstone Park, Harrogate, HG2 7DB. The shop is open Tuesday through Thursday, with hours from 10am to 4pm on Tuesday and Wednesday, and a later closing time of 8pm on Thursday. Looking ahead, the Cone Exchange will be at Knit & Stitch Harrogate 2025, supporting Yorkshire Cancer Research. For those wanting to keep up with their latest news and events, following their Instagram @coneexchangeharrogate is the way to go.
