AUSTRALIA’S BIGGEST VINNIES OPENING IN TOWNSVILLE

Townsville residents – get ready to op-shop ‘til you drop as Australia’s biggest ever Vinnies Shop opens in West End tomorrow!

Located in Woodman Court, the expansive 1600m² store will be a thrift heaven for the Townsville community to enjoy a treasure trove of pre-loved fashion and goods, with proceeds from purchases going directly to help local residents in need.

In a Vinnies first, the new store also features a formal and wedding section, with dedicated fitting rooms for bridal parties, friends and family members.

Vinnies Queensland General Manager of Operations, Drew Eide said the opening of the store was an exciting milestone for the Society and a direct reflection of the growth in recycled retail as shoppers become more value-conscious during a cost-of-living crisis.

“As we get ready to open the doors to our largest op-shop in the country, we’re thrilled to be responding to the growing wave of style-conscious, savvy and environmentally focused shoppers who are opting to shop second-hand,” Mr Eide said.

“Our new features and store layout, including a dedicated section for bridal and formal wear, are perfect for Townsville residents who are after one-of-a-kind pieces that don’t break the bank.

“Op-shopping continues to grow in popularity across Queensland – we’ve seen a 10 per cent increase in shoppers compared to the previous year, with strong revenue growth and nearly 3 million unique items sold at Vinnies across the state in the last financial year.

“This growth in sales is very welcome as we answer an increasing amount of calls for help from Queenslanders in need, as cost-of-living pressures and ongoing housing crisis continue to impact vulnerable residents.”

St Vincent de Paul Society Townsville Diocesan President, Collette Brickhill said in the last financial year, the Townsville Diocese delivered $659,000 of support to 24,000 locals in need, and the opening of this exciting new store would allow the vital work to continue.

“We know right now many Queenslanders are doing it tough and we’re working hard to provide support through our wide range of services,” Ms Brickhill said.

“Our Shops provide important funding for our Members to continue to help struggling locals.”

“Shopping at Vinnies in Townsville is not just an opportunity to find affordable, unique items – it allows us to continue to help those struggling across the state.”

Vinnies The Lakes, Townsville is located at 1 Woodman Ct, West End 4810 and will be open from Saturday, 9 September, with the community invited to attend the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony from 9am.