A new shop serving up a range of healthy snacks is set to open its doors in Colchester in early December. 

Pic'a Nut is preparing to launch a pioneering concept in the city centre, offering healthy snacks and roasted nuts. 

Shop owner Faruk Ekin, 43, and his team are finalising a Turkish and Mediterranean shop with a new take on snacks and sweets. 

He said: “I came up with the idea because I wanted to create a nut and dried fruit shop, and offer healthy snacks. 

“I liked the idea of having a refill and zero waste approach, so we deviated from the initial idea to the concept we have now.” 

Despite a variety of nuts, seeds, grain, and dried fruits, the shop will offer a number of specialities, such as Tiptree jam and Maldon salt. 

“We also want to include pastries and baked goods to get involved with local bakeries,” Mr Ekin said. 

“During all of this, I wanted to find the balance between quality and affordability. Many shops failed during Covid, and many have driven away for example students and people with lower incomes by their pricing. 

“Our aim is to create a shop for everyone, a place where everyone will find something.” 

The way to set up this unique shop took some time, as Mr Ekin worked on the concept for a number of years. 

He said: “It took a while for the shop to come along, I was thinking about it for six to seven years.” 

The concept evolved from a pick-and-mix-type of shop to a focus on sustainability and health, offering residents and visitors a new take on providing affordable, yet high-quality food. 

With more than 50 different nuts, seeds, dried fruits and granola in the repertoire, Pic'a Nut wants to cater for all tastes. 

A variety of coffee and tea specialities, as well as on-the-go lunches, will follow, too. 

Once the store is up and running, more products will be available, including holiday themed hampers. 

Additionally, special goods will be brought in for Ramadan celebrations. 

Pic’a Nut will officially open on December 7 in Long Wyre Street.