A “unique” charity shop that sells building materials alongside used furniture and household items has officially launched in east London.
Housing charity Habitat for Humanity GB marked the official grand opening celebration of its ReStore GB shop in Romford today.
The store is the first of its kind to open in Britain, with a few shops based on the same model already open in Ireland.
Habitat for Humanity GB initially opened the London shop’s doors with a soft launch in August, starting with minimal stock.
This approach was to ensure that it “generated donations and built connections with the local community”, a spokesperson for the charity told Civil Society.
“During this period, we focused on setting up operations, raising awareness locally and our mission to support sustainability,” they added.
‘Unique shopping experience’
ReStore GB is a home improvement retail store dedicated to helping vulnerable people in need of safe and decent housing.
The charity described it as “a social enterprise that plays a pivotal role in funding Habitat for Humanity’s efforts to create affordable housing and promote sustainable communities”.
“As the first ReStore in GB, we’re proud to offer a unique shopping experience with an extensive range of quality items,” it said.
“From furniture to DIY materials, every purchase directly supports our mission to build a better future for the community.”
The store offers items such as building materials (doors, windows, flooring, kitchen cabinets and other things); plumbing (bathroom fittings, sinks, taps); and hardware (nails, screws, lumber).
It aims to make home improvement more accessible and affordable for the general public.
“While many charities sell used furniture and household items, Habitat ReStore is unique in that we also sell building materials alongside these items,” the spokesperson said.
“For example, if you have a home DIY project to complete in your kitchen, under one roof you can purchase the appliances, kitchen cabinets and doors, handles, tools to put it all together, and the very screws and hinges needed to hold it all in place.”
Aim to divert 300 tonnes of materials from landfill
ReStore GB relies on donations from the public and partners in the business community, particularly the construction sector.
The spokesperson said these donations “help reduce landfill and contribute to the circular economy by promoting the reuse and resale of items”.
“Millions of people live in inadequate housing and are living without access to essential furniture and appliances, yet every year, individuals and businesses discard millions of tonnes of usable materials,” they added.
“In response to this waste crisis, our ReStore aims to divert at least 300 tonnes of materials from landfill annually, based on data from similar operations.
“Every purchase contributes directly to supporting Habitat for Humanity’s work in building affordable housing.
“This combination of affordability, sustainability and community impact is what sets ReStore apart.”
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