A brand-new day for second-hand shop
The Cat Protection Society’s Enmore Road Op Shop has been transformed from thrift shop to gift shop following renovations and a new marketing strategy.
The ‘old’ shop was closed at Christmas and we’ve spent the past couple of months cleaning, renovating, refocusing the store and establishing new policies. The result is a clean, bright space that creates an enjoyable shopping experience.
“We receive some incredible donations – from designer clothes to unwanted gifts that are as-new; fantastic retro items and vintage wear to everyday items, like glassware, plates and paperback thrillers,
“Whether you’re after a unique collectable or just a bargain read (all paperbacks $2) you’re bound to find a great buy at the Cat Protection Op Shop.” said Cat Protection CEO Kristina Vesk.
“And for those who like to make their own clothes, we have fabric, patterns and notions.
The good deal goes even further: when you buy from our Op Shop you’re helping the environment by applying the principles of re-use and recycle and you’re also helping our feline welfare work. There is no more satisfying way to shop!”
New technologies, cheap imports and changing demographics were challenging the traditional ‘op shop’ model. Add to that increasing costs in rent and utilities and Cat Protection had to look at how the Op Shop could sustain profitability.
“A major issue for us is to reduce the volume of items given to us that we cannot sell.
Rubbish removal is a huge cost burden for all charities that operate op shops. The key to changing this is informing the community about what we can and can’t accept.”
Space limitations along with hygiene and safety challenges resulted in a change to the items now accepted for the Op Shop. We’ve published a detailed donations policy to help donors ensure their items can be sold to raise funds for the cats in our care – the Op Shop is Cat Protection’s major fundraising activity.
“We thank all the donors, volunteers and customers who have helped us over the past three decades and those who are helping us as we move into the future.
“We look forward to our community’s continued support of our life-saving feline welfare work – because every cat deserves a loving and responsible home.”
The Cat Protection Society Op Shop
85 Enmore Road Newtown
10am-4pm
Wednesday to Saturday
Photos L-R: Lawrence Gibbon of Alternative Media Group, Cat Protection President Rhonda House and Mayor of Marrickville Jo Haylen at the Op Shop opening; some of the beautiful items for sale; have a rest or try on some shoes in our new look store
