Alternatives Global Marketplace

Great shop tucked in strip mall. I don’t live in Gainesville, but visit family there. I try to always stop and shop at Global Alternatives.
The selection and quality of the different artists and geographies is very good and if you are a global traveler, then you know you are paying reasonable prices stateside. I would love to see more work from south east Asian artists.
Thanks!

I’ve been in this store multiple times and have had a great experience every time. The women who work here are incredibly nice and helpful. All of the items I’ve purchased have been unique, high in quality, and reasonable in price. They even offered to call me when more bolga baskets come in because I’m interested in purchasing more. Great place.

Please go to Alternatives Global Market people: admire the handcrafted and recycled goods, and spend your money! It is the perfect place to buy lovely artisan gifts from around the world. You’ll find textiles, sculptures, practical home goods, and more… all one of a kind, affordable, hand-​crafted art. Great for yourself and for giving.
I buy nearly all my friends and family’s gifts here and many of my favorite things have come from this store. From recycled hanging candle holders, and hand crafted boxes to soapstone elephant statues and Tibetan bells, you will seriously find something for everyone’s tastes. The jewelry and accessory selections are fantastic. The soaps and personal goods are divine, and the clothes are uniquely designed.
What’s even better is that profits from their store help to sustain fair trade principles by providing opportunities for economically disadvantaged producers. Producers are offered a fair price and are ensured good working conditions. Summary: Go to Alternatives! Buy goods! Tell others about it. Together we can make thoughtful purchases of economically just and environmentally sound products.

Did my shopping here again last Christmas. Consistently awesome!

I am really not Alternatives ideal customer, since I am not really into incense and all that stuff. But, for Gainesville this is a great place to check out and find something unique and fair trade. I found a really nice fair trade organic hand crocheted black shirt and bought it right away. Where else would you find something like that? Definitely not the mall or Urban Outfitters.
Most of their stock is fair trade from the Middle East or Africa, and I wish that they had more items from Asia. I know there are fair traders in Vietnam for sure, as well as South America.
It is definitely worth checking out, plus all of the stores in the same plaza are a must see.