There are basically two types of 2nd hand stores in Waterloo Region. There are “thrift shops” often run by non-profit organizations whose usual objective is to raise money for community organizations.
Then there are “consignment shops” who generally take in items (usually clothing) from people in the community, display them, and make them available to others looking for inexpensive items in good condition. The original contributor is then compensated with a portion of the sale price.
Here is an overview of some of these two types of shops in Waterloo Region. This is certainly not a complete list, but hopefully serves to shed some light on the wide range of options available in our area. The descriptions are taken directly from their websites or other online media.
Thrift Shops
Value Village Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge
“…we’ve opened stores across the U.S., Canada, and Australia and have consistently partnered with local nonprofit organizations. We accept donations of clothing and household items on their behalf, paying them for that stuff, and helping fund programs in our communities.”
Salvation Army – Kitchener
“… We are proud to be one of Canada’s largest clothing recyclers. Through our Thrift Stores we offer savings on secondhand clothing and household goods while caring for our communities and the planet we share.”
Quality Discounts – Elmira
2nd hand clothing
MCC Thrift & Gift – Elmira
“MCC Thrift is a non-profit thrift shop. All proceeds support Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) in local and global relief, development and peace projects. Proceeds from MCC Thrift fund programs here in Ontario, Canada and globally.”
The Thrift Shop – Elmira (Woolwich Community Services)
“The Thrift Shop is a major fundraising activity for WCS. Proceeds support the many programs we offer the community. Quality used clothing, household items, books, knick knacks, sporting equipment, electronics can be purchased at great prices.”
Talize – Kitchener
“Talize is a proudly Canadian owned and operated for-profit thrift retailer. We’re passionate about Sustainable Fashion because we know we’re helping the planet at the same time as providing you amazing value!” Locations in Ontario
Thrift on Kent – Kitchener
Mennonite Central Committee – “MCC Thrift on Kent is a unique and ever-changing thrift shop. 100% of our profits fund Mennonite Central Committee projects locally and globally.”
Argus Uptown Thrift – Cambridge
“Uptown Thrift is a charity thrift store operated by Argus Residence for Young People that sells quality previously-loved, refurbished, repurposed, and upcycled goods. Here at Uptown Thrift you’ll find clothing, furniture, household items, books and much more!”
Goodwill Industries – Kitchener, Cambridge, Waterloo
Numerous locations in Ontario – “… hundreds of new items added each week across our online stores and auction pages, with options for curbside pick-up or shipping, depending on your location.”
Consignment Shops
MayCourt Shop – Belmont Village, Waterloo
From their website: “From its earliest beginnings in 1898 to the present day, the goal of The May Court Clubs of Canada has been to raise funds to serve and support women and children in need.”
Carousel Clothing – Kitchener
“…the largest consignment store in the area and have over 4000 consignors. This means we have 500-1000 new pieces of clothing every week!”
Posh Consignment – Cambridge
Women’s clothing store “…Designer and Quality Brand Name Purses, Clothing, Evening Wear, Shoes, and accessories!”
Twice Is Nice & Twice the Man Clothing & Selectables – Waterloo
“Twice is Nice Twice the Man isn’t a thrift shop. We sell fine quality, up-to-the minute pre-owned women’s and men’s fashions that are in style and in pristine condition.”
You can find more information about these and other 2nd hand shops in the Waterloo Region by searching online or by consulting regional directories.