Buy Social for a Better World.

Join the #BuySocial Movement

What is a Social Enterprise?

A social enterprise is a business that exists to make a difference. Like any other business, social enterprises aim to generate profit, but what sets them apart is how they use those profits.

Instead of going to shareholders, profits are reinvested into creating positive social change, supporting communities, protecting the environment, and helping people who need it most.

Social enterprises are all around us, on our high streets, in our towns and villages. They can be anything from coffee shops and food producers to transport services and digital platforms.

Well-known examples include The Big Issue, Belu Water, and The Eden Project. In fact, there are over 100,000 social enterprises in the UK, contributing £60 billion to the economy and employing over two million people.

It's business for good, and when they profit, society profits.

Basalt and Oak: A Brand with Purpose

Basalt and Oak is more than just a gift shop. It's a brand created and delivered by Seasons of the Glens CIC, a registered Social Enterprise based in Northern Ireland.

We stock a range of high-quality, locally made gifts and artisan food, while also helping to create social and economic change in our communities.

When you buy from Basalt and Oak, you're supporting a business that reinvests profits to:

• Help small businesses grow and thrive
• Deliver markets that bring people together
• Create training and trading opportunities for under-capitalised individuals
• Animate rural and urban spaces through community-led events
• Support local food networks and creatives and keep traditional skills alive

Why Buy from a Social Enterprise?

Everyone has their own reason for choosing to Buy Social. Here are just a few:

• "I know my money is doing good in my community."
• "If I'm going to spend, I'd rather support people, not shareholders."
• "It makes me happy to know I'm contributing to something bigger."
• "Buying social turns everyday shopping into something meaningful."
• "The quality is great, and I get to support small, local producers."

At Basalt and Oak, you'll find products that not only taste good or look beautiful. They do good, too.

Where Our Profits Go

Seasons of the Glens CIC also operates:

• Event Services and Equipment Hire
• Princess Taisie Hire
• Sampling Experiences
• Devil's Churn Caramel Sauces

All of these contribute to our wider mission. We generate income through product sales through our shop and online platforms, and by partnering with producers who share our values. Every penny we make is reinvested to support people, businesses, and communities across Northern Ireland.

How You Can Help

When you shop at Basalt and Oak, hire a market pitch, or attend one of our events, you're not just making a transaction. You're making a difference.

From buying a hamper, to gifting a bottle of caramel sauce, to simply turning up at your local market, every small action helps us do more.

👉 Read about Seasons of the Glens CIC here.