Fillagreen, the beloved low-waste refillery in Historic Downtown Manassas, celebrated its first anniversary! To commemorate this milestone, we sat down with co-founder John Hicks to explore their journey and vision for a greener future.
From Inspiration to Innovation: Building a Sustainable Haven
John and his wife Beverly, driven by a shared passion for sustainability, embarked on a unique venture. Inspired by Beverly's idea, Fillagreen was born. This innovative store offers refillable household and personal care products, empowering customers to minimize single-use plastics. Their philosophy? "Imperfect sustainability." Fillagreen encourages small, achievable steps towards a more eco-friendly lifestyle, making sustainability accessible to all.
Reflecting on the past year, John highlighted the dynamic nature of entrepreneurship. Each day brought new challenges and triumphs, offering valuable lessons. However, one constant remained – the unwavering support of the Manassas community. From fellow businesses to enthusiastic customers, Historic Downtown Manassas embraced Fillagreen with open arms, solidifying its place in the local fabric.
“I absolutely love what I do. I love working with people. I love talking to people. I love the educational component of what we do. I love the opportunities that I have to be able to do things like speak at the green conference, stand up and talk at one million cups, and just engage with people coming off the street to go,” said John.
John's entrepreneurial journey underscored the importance of humility and resilience. He learned to navigate the unexpected while finding strength in the vibrant community surrounding him. Through collaboration and networking with other businesses, John discovered invaluable resources and support, empowering him to tackle challenges head-on.
“We really enjoy being down here, most in first, and foremost, the community of business owners. The community of residents has been the world of difference for us, that is something that we are absolutely thrilled to be a part of,” John told us.
Looking Forward: Expanding the Green Ripple Effect
As Fillagreen embarks on its second year, John remains optimistic about the future. They envision expanding their reach and further solidifying their commitment to sustainability. As John emphasizes, "Dream big, but start small." By celebrating each milestone, Fillagreen paves the way for a greener future, one refill at a time.
Fillagreen's first year is a testament to growth, resilience, and community. From their innovative concept to their undeniable impact, Fillagreen embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and environmental responsibility. With a shared vision and unwavering dedication, John and his team are well on their way to shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for Manassas and beyond.
Here's to many more years of Fillagreen's success in its mission for a greener tomorrow!
