Photo by Shanna Camilleri, Unsplash
By Neo Lekhela
Due to the city’s rising cost of living, charity shops in London are experiencing an increase in business.
These shops have emerged as a lifeline for those living on a tight budget, having being squashed due to the cost of living crisis. As a result, individuals are donating more – and buying more – because they want to save money while helping the less fortunate.
When the pandemic hit, Lindy Mathkara, 46, the manager of a charity shop in West London, noticed a marked rise in customer traffic. More individuals had been coming in looking for deals, she claimed. Seventy-five percent of customers had issues keeping up with costs, while the rest were merely looking for more opportunities to save money.
“These days I see a lot of families that aren’t necessarily dead broke with no money but due to inflation I now see middle class families coming in to save money which is something I have never encountered before in the shop,” she said.
Staple winter items in demand
Mathkara’s shop sells a variety of items, including clothing, books and household goods. She has noticed how some items are more popular than others, particularly warm staples. “We have seen our winter collection of items like winter coats and boots being sold out in a matter of moments .”
The rising cost of living has hit people in London hard, and now this doesn’t even just include people on low incomes. According to Plumpot, the average property price in London is £718k and has increased by 8% over the last 12 months.
Alongside steep property prices food prices have also just rocketed in the last two years. Charity shops offer a means for people to save money and yet be able to get what they need.
One shopper, who wished to remain anonymous, said that she visits charity shops regularly to save her money. “I’ve been struggling to make ends meet since I lost my job last year, but I still need to buy clothes and other essentials.
“Charity shops are a godsend – I can get exactly what I need for a fraction of the cost.”
Similarly, another shopper, Joseline Urgo, 38, who is a mum to four children, said that she visits charity shops for ethical reasons.
“I like the fact that the money I spend goes towards a great cause, it really gives me hope and puts faith back in me. I also often find the most rare, unique items that I would never be able to find elsewhere.”
Help save the planet
The success of charity shops in London is not just down to the rise of inflation and the cost of living crisis. Many people have become even more environmentally conscious in the recent years and are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. By buying second hand items, everyone can reduce waste and help save the planet.
The charity sector has also benefited from the trend toward sustainability. Through encouraging people to donate unwanted items rather than throwing them away, charities are helping to reduce landfill waste and promoting the idea of reusing.
With their contribution of low prices, ethical values and environmental benefits, charity shops provide great service to their local communities. For more information on how to donate to your local charity shop visit the Charity Retail Association.
Video by Neo Lekhela
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