Luvo manager Peter Couch and employee Rita take in the new shop fit-out at Luvo. 68391 Picture: SARAH MATRAY
By Charlene Gatt
IT’S the little social enterprise that could.
Retail and manufacturing business Cleanable was officially re-launched last week under a new name, Luvo.
The Victoria St business has been an iconic part of Seddon since opening in 1996, offering a wide range of environmentally friendly products for the home and body.
Luvo, which is open six days a week, also employs 29 people from Melbourne’s West who are living with a mental disability.
The shop recently received a facelift to coincide with the launch. Behind the store is the manufacturing arm of the company, which produces unique tote bags made from recycled materials and soy candle melts for the retail shop.
The business also includes a domestic cleaning and gardening service.
Proving that social enterprises make good business, Luvo took in more than $1.2 million over the 2010/11 financial year.
It also won Maribyrnong City Council’s MIRA award last year for Most Inclusive Business Practices.
Manager Peter Couch said helping people help themselves was a highlight of his job.
“It also opens up people’s minds that mental illness is not something to be scared of,” he said.
“We are so pleased to be expanding and launching our new concept store, which we hope will be a successful template for additional stores in the future.
“Our success means that we will continue to be able to provide sustainable employment opportunities for some of the most disadvantaged in our community; those living with a mental illness.”
