First ever UK store selling used household items opens in Romford
A new shop which is the first of its kind for the UK has opened in an Essex town selling various household items for a "fraction" of their retail price. ReStore has opened in Romford High Street as part of the non-profit organisation Habitat for Humanity's retail sector.
The store sells "new and gently used" furniture, appliances, building materials, and household items to the public at a "fraction of the retail price". ReStore operates in many countries around the world, including Poland, Canada, and Australia, with proceeds from the sales help fund Habitat for Humanity’s housing projects, providing affordable housing and home repairs for families in need.
The concept also promotes environmental sustainability by diverting items from landfills, encouraging recycling, and supporting a circular economy, Habitat for Humanity said. ReStores are staffed by volunteers and are a key part of Habitat for Humanity's efforts to create affordable homes while reducing waste.
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ReStore Romford is the first ReStore in Great Britain. Habitat for Humanity Ireland have successfully launched the model there, and are hoping to see the efforts expanded into England. While the store is now open, the official launch will be held next week on November 26 with their patron HRH The Duke of Gloucester attending to mark the occasion.
A spokesman for ReStore said: "The event is a great opportunity to learn more about ReStore and the contribution it will make to our mission to build homes and hope. We'll be welcoming guests with tea and coffee from 10.45, before kicking off at 11.00.
"Join us to celebrate the official opening, and take a tour of our flagship store, where you can see firsthand how our volunteers and staff are bringing affordable home improvement items to the local community."