Headline: Moving from LA to West Cork: The Path to a Sustainable Business
A Journey of Discovery: From Venice Beach to West Cork
In the spring of 2016, Chris Mason and his wife, Laurie, made the life-changing decision to uproot their family from the bustling streets of Los Angeles to the tranquil beauty of West Cork, Ireland. As they sat down for dinner at their favorite Venice Beach restaurant, they realized they were ready for a new chapter. Their leap of faith not only transformed their own lives but also birthed a promising sustainable business, Clearance Items Ltd, which specializes in giving returned goods a second life.
The Decision to Relocate
Chris and Laurie had spent considerable time in West Cork during the summer of 2015 and were captivated by its charm and sense of community. As they reminisced about their experiences, Chris recalled a kind gesture from a local when they needed milk: "Someone went behind the bar and filled up a container of milk – and he didn’t even work there. It was a wonderful gesture that spoke volumes about the warmth of the West Cork people."
The couple was drawn to the area’s unique character, where children could roam freely and communities thrived on interpersonal connections, quite different from their life in LA. Initially considering a move to Oregon, the couple ultimately decided that West Cork was where they truly belonged.
Building a Life in West Cork
After settling into their new home in Schull, Chris noticed a significant change in their family dynamic. "In LA, you wouldn’t want your kids walking down the block without having an eye on them – here you could let your guard down," he noted. This newfound peace of mind was only enhanced by the supportive local community that welcomed them with open arms.
Their children, Ben and Emilia, quickly adapted and found joy in new adventures. Chris shared a memorable experience when a local sailor invited his family to witness baby seals on Middle Calf Island. "There were ponies on the island, quite friendly – it’s just a really happy memory from that time," he said.
A New Venture in Sustainability
The idea for Chris’s business came unexpectedly while watching YouTube videos with his son. He was intrigued by a channel about buying and selling Amazon returns, prompting him to research the logistics of the trade. "I learned that many of these returns used to be sent to landfill, and I thought, ‘What an opportunity!’" Chris remarked.
Initially starting from his garage with a purchase of four return pallets, Chris combined his self-employment experience with a growing interest in environmental sustainability, which ultimately led to the establishment of Clearance Items Ltd. The business focuses on diverting goods from landfills and supporting the circular economy.
"I wouldn’t have gotten into this if I didn’t believe it was profitable," Chris explained. "But knowing that I am part of something that benefits both the community and the environment is incredibly fulfilling."
Impact on the Community and Environment
Located in Skibbereen, Co. Cork, Clearance Items Ltd has grown rapidly, currently employing three local individuals. The expansion of the business is expected to create further employment opportunities in the community. "I love West Cork, and we want to give back. This is a real, concrete way of doing that," Chris shared.
Operating as an eBay seller, Clearance Items Ltd connects with buyers across 190 markets, facilitating sustainability through the resale of returned items. The partnership with platforms like eBay serves not only to simplify the export process via tools like eBaymag but also underscores an increasing trend towards responsible consumption and waste reduction among technology-savvy consumers.
Looking Ahead
Chris’s journey from Venice Beach to West Cork illustrates the potential for personal transformation and the creation of sustainable ventures in today’s economy. As he continues to innovate and expand his business, the local community’s support remains a driving force in his success.
This story is not just about relocating; it highlights the importance of community, sustainability, and resilience in business. For readers interested in the circular economy and the impact of e-commerce, Chris Mason’s journey provides valuable insights and inspiration.
What are your thoughts on sustainable business practices? Have you ever considered a major life change to pursue your passions? Share your comments below or on social media, and feel free to check out more articles on tech innovation and sustainability here at Shorty-News.
For further insights into eBay’s role in supporting small businesses, visit TechCrunch or explore articles on responsible consumption at Wired.
