Support local: Lime’s inaugural Local Business Awards kicks off in Melbourne
Support local with Lime
Small businesses are the lifeblood of our local communities. These neighborhood gems, owned and operated by friends and neighbors, don't just provide goods and services—they cultivate a sense of localized identity and pride. These businesses create jobs, support other local suppliers and reinvest their profits back into the communities they serve. Shopping local is about more than just transactions; it's about fostering vibrant neighborhoods, celebrating diversity and nurturing the unique character that makes our cities thrive. At Lime, we understand the vital role these small businesses play, which is why we're honored to shine a light on five exceptional local Melbourne businesses through our inaugural Local Business Awards.
The process
This May, Lime asked their entire rider database across Melbourne to nominate their favorite local business that they believe has significantly impacted their local community. Out of 1,000 nominations, 30 were shortlisted to make it to the final round. From this shortlist, Lime selected the five winners to receive the inaugural Award.
Each winning business received:
A $2,000 unrestricted grant for the business to spend at their discretion
Free Lime rides for 12 months for all staff members
10 minutes of free riding per customer for a month
The local celebs
Super Norma isn't just a restaurant; it's the result of a conversation-turned-experiment between friends Marco and Luca outside a sandwich shop. What if Southern Italian cuisine could be as easy and portable as a panino? With Marco's dream of a pasta bar and Luca’s enthusiasm, they turned that idea into reality.
“They are two awesome Italian boys cooking like their Nonna - simple pasta dishes from Sicily in Chinese takeaway boxes. Cooked to order, always packed with flavour. And they are Disco Mediterranean DJs so the music is always the perfect mood. Small, authentic, vibrant and delicious!” -Lime rider and Super Norma customer
Michael and Nadeen Kelly are a husband and wife team who have lived in Carlton for 16 years.
The Heart of Carlton is a warm meeting place for people of all generations to come together and mingle, laugh and enjoy a healthy bite to eat.
“The Heart of Carlton is a business for the people, serving customers $5 pastas, curries and sandwiches - an incredible offer in this inflationary environment. Their staff always greet you with a friendly smile and interesting conversation, and it just makes me so happy to see people able to eat great food at affordable prices. This place really is one of a kind. There’s always plenty of Limes around the area too once you’ve grabbed your $5 feed!” -Lime rider and Heart of Carlton customer
As an iconic century-old landmark, Trinity St Kilda venue exudes warmth and inclusivity, inviting all to experience its charm. This venue offers a versatile setting with a spacious beer garden, inviting beer hall and four distinct event spaces.
“Getting a Lime to the restaurant is the easiest way to meet people and friends. It also has several trucks in the outdoor area bringing different kinds of food. The drinks are also served quickly and the venue attracts a really nice crowd. Getting a lime to the venue then allows you to get an Uber home and avoid drunk driving.” -Lime rider and Trinity St Kilda customer
Chop Shop is like a barbershop - but for everyone. It’s not a lads pad or a fancy salon; it’s just a place to get your hair cut. The team have been making the inner north sexy since March 2021, and are still welcoming new friendly faces through the doors every day.
"Chop Shop is the most inclusive barber shop I have ever been to! They don’t charge extra if you have long hair, short hair or whatever gender you are. Most barber shops exclude women, but not Chop Shop! It’s for everyone." -Lime rider and Chop Chop customer
Since opening its doors in 2009, A Thousand Blessings Cafe has become more than just a cafe; it's a sanctuary for those who cherish community and quality. Anchored in a deep commitment to using only the finest organic and locally sourced produce, their evolution has been guided by a steadfast dedication to nourishing the community they are a part of.
“It’s not just the morning cup of coffee. It’s the remembering who I am, what my coffee order is, treating me like family, and giving me a spot to belong when I’m feeling lonely. It’s allowing me to setup a “tab” when I’m short between pays. It’s the occasional coffee “on the house” when it’s clear I’m upset. A Thousand Blessings is not just a cafe, it’s another home to many regulars like me.” -Lime rider and A Thousand Blessings customer
Lime’s Mission
Lime's mission is to build a future where transportation is shared, affordable and carbon-free. As the world's largest provider of shared electric vehicles, Lime partners with cities to deploy electric bikes and scooters to serve any trip under five miles. A past Time Magazine 100 Most Influential Company and Fast Company Brand that Matters, Lime has powered more than 500 million rides in nearly 280 cities across five continents, spurring a new generation of clean alternatives to car ownership.
