July 16, 2025

The Source Opens First Refillery in Shreveport

News Summary

The Source has officially opened its doors in Shreveport, introducing the first local refillery concept in northwest Louisiana. With a focus on sustainability, the store allows customers to bring their own containers for a variety of eco-friendly products, from cleaning supplies to beauty items. Owner Kelsey Hayes aims to promote recycling in the community, making this new store a unique addition. Customers can find natural and organic products, which are thoughtfully adapted for local water conditions, and there are plans for future expansion, including local markets.

Shreveport – The Source held its grand opening on Sunday, marking the introduction of the first local refillery concept in northwest Louisiana. Located at 3823 Gilbert Drive in the Madison Park Business Center, the new store attracted a crowd of curious customers who filled the sidewalk to explore a variety of eco-friendly products, including vintage clothing, Texas-made jewelry, and natural beauty items.

Owner Kelsey Hayes is pioneering a sustainable shopping model that allows customers to bring their own containers to purchase various cleaning and personal care products by volume. This innovative approach aims to address the lack of recycling options available to residents of Shreveport. Currently, the nearest refillery is located in cities such as Dallas, New Orleans, or Little Rock, making The Source a unique addition to the community.

Among the refillable items available at The Source are hand soap, body wash, dish soap, floor cleaner, laundry detergent (in both liquid and powder forms), and all-purpose cleaners. Additionally, customers can find limited-packaging products, including shampoo, conditioner, face wash, and soap bars. All products offered are natural, organic, and environmentally friendly, making them safe for outdoor activities like camping.

To cater to Shreveport’s hard water conditions, Hayes has adapted her product line to ensure effectiveness, leading to the development of a loyal customer base. Most refillable products are competitively priced at 59 cents per ounce or less, comparable to popular brands such as Seventh Generation. Customers have the option to bring their own containers, receive complimentary jars from the store, or purchase matching containers directly from The Source. A community jar discount of 10% is also available to customers who provide a clean, dry glass jar.

The Source operates under a core ethos focused on reducing waste and promoting recycling and reuse. Hayes was inspired to establish the store under the mentorship of her mother, Lorraine Richardson, who is not only an advocate for sustainability but also the artist behind some of the handmade jewelry and beauty balms offered in the store. Additionally, Hayes’ sister, Avery Richardson, co-owns The Lovely Lasso Vintage, while their father, Bryan Richardson, contributes by providing beard care products that are also available at The Source.

In a bid to further enhance sustainability, The Source offers a service where Hayes sends packaging from specific products to TerraCycle, an international recycling organization, with proceeds supporting Shreveport Green, a local environmental advocacy group. This initiative underscores the store’s commitment to community and environmental well-being.

Looking ahead, Hayes plans to expand the range of refill options available and introduce monthly markets showcasing local food and products, which are set to launch in late summer. The Source is currently open from Wednesday to Saturday, operating from 11 am to 5 pm, with occasional openings on Sundays.

Customers have responded positively to the store’s ambiance, often comparing it to shops found in Austin, Texas, indicating a strong sense of community support for this new venture. The Source not only embodies a novel retail concept in Shreveport but serves as a beacon for sustainable living in the region.