Revive Leeds has launched its third reuse shop in Hunslet, partnering with Leeds City Council to provide a treasure trove of second-hand furniture, appliances, clothing, and entertainment goods. This eco-friendly outlet not only promotes sustainable living by reducing waste but also offers job training, turning community donations into support for local charities and a greener future.
What is Revive Leeds and what does it offer with its new Hunslet reuse shop?
Revive Leeds, partnering with Leeds City Council, opened a new Hunslet reuse shop offering second-hand furniture, appliances, clothing, and entertainment goods. This eco-friendly store promotes community sustainability by selling quality pre-loved items, reducing waste, and providing job training. Open daily, it also accepts donations, supporting local charities while fostering environmental stewardship.
A New Haven for Reusable Goods
Revive Leeds, in partnership with Leeds City Council, has proudly announced the opening of its third reuse store in Hunslet. The store, situated almost 14 years after Revive’s initial venture in Seacroft, stands as a testament to the organization’s commitment to sustainability and community service. This new retail outlet offers a wide variety of second-hand items, from quality furniture and electrical appliances to clothing and entertainment goods, providing an eco-friendly shopping alternative to the residents of Leeds.
The Hunslet store is not just a place to find bargains; it’s a hub where the lifecycle of goods is extended, thus reducing waste. With prices significantly lower than new items, the store encourages the local community to embrace the practice of reusing and recycling. Patrons can expect to find everything they need to furnish a home or entertain at the fraction of the cost, all while contributing to a greener planet.
Revive operates five retail outlets throughout West Yorkshire, supported by a dedicated team of 67 staff members and over 30 volunteers, including individuals enrolled in work-based training programs. These programs are designed to provide hands-on retail and warehousing experience, giving participants valuable skills that can lead to paid employment. The organization not only contributes to environmental conservation but also plays a pivotal role in social welfare and job creation.
A Cycle of Benefit: From Donations to Charity Support
The Hunslet store, along with its counterparts, plays a crucial role in the ecosystem of reuse and recycling in Leeds. By conducting thorough electrical testing on all donated items, Revive ensures that the products on their shelves are safe and functional. The funds generated from sales are then channeled back into their two member charities: SLATE’s The Feel Good Furniture Stores and The St Vincent de Paul Society (England & Wales). These charities strive to create work opportunities for people with learning disabilities and work tirelessly to alleviate poverty in the Leeds area, respectively.
Conveniently open seven days a week from 10 am to 5:30 pm, the Hunslet store not only allows residents to purchase high-quality, pre-loved items but also serves as a drop-off point for donations. This seamless process encourages community members to actively participate in reuse and recycling efforts. It’s a symbiotic relationship where the act of donating or purchasing not only supports the local economy but also aids in the reduction of waste.
The partnership between Revive and Leeds City Council has established a successful model for managing reusable donations, which are collected at household waste recycling centers. These items, ranging from furniture to clothing, are then sold in Revive’s reuse shops, including locations in Kirkstall and Seacroft, demonstrating a successful collaborative effort towards environmental sustainability.
Community and Environmental Advancement
Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Leeds City Council executive member for climate, energy, environment and green space, expressed his enthusiasm for the new outlet: “It’s great to see a third Revive shop being opened in Leeds that helps to build on our successful partnership together. It can only be a good thing that more and more of the fantastic reusable items we receive at council recycling centers can find a new home whilst benefiting our local communities and the environment.”
Echoing this sentiment, Louise Megson, Director at Revive, highlighted the organization’s achievements and future aspirations: “Revive are proud to yet again open another retail outlet which not only aids in our objective to convert as much designated waste into reuse but also brings employment to the local communities where we are based. Last year we saved 1,650 tonnes from the waste stream providing local people with affordable and quality goods.”
With nearly 3,000 square feet of floor space, the Hunslet shop is well equipped to serve the local community. It is easily accessible, featuring parking for customers and a vast array of items for sale, including but not limited to:
- House and garden furniture
- Clothing and footwear
- Kitchen items such as cutlery and crockery
- Books, DVDs, CDs, records, board games, and toys
- Electrical items like lamps and food mixers
In the previous year alone, Revive’s efforts led to the reuse of 1,150 bicycles and the sale of 40,968 books, illustrating the significant impact these stores have on waste reduction.
To learn more about Revive’s mission, store locations, and how to contribute, visit their website at www.revivereuse.org.uk. The organization stands as a beacon of community interest, having established itself in November 2010 through a partnership that continues today. All financial surplus at year-end is reinvested into member charities, ensuring continued service to their client groups.
In conclusion, Revive Leeds, with the support of Leeds City Council, has expanded its operations to promote reuse, reduce waste, and foster community engagement. With the opening of the Hunslet store, the organization continues to make strides in environmental stewardship and social development, embodying the spirit of sustainability and collective responsibility. For media inquiries, please contact louise.megson@revivereuse.org.uk.
ENDS
- Revive Leeds has opened its third reuse shop in Hunslet, partnering with Leeds City Council to promote sustainable living through second-hand items.
- The new store offers a diverse range of pre-loved goods, including furniture, appliances, clothing, and entertainment items, at significantly lower prices than new products.
- Revive operates five retail outlets in West Yorkshire and provides job training programs for individuals seeking valuable retail and warehousing experience.
- Donations to the store support local charities, such as SLATE and The St Vincent de Paul Society, which work to alleviate poverty and create job opportunities for people with learning disabilities.
- The Hunslet shop is open seven days a week and aims to foster community participation in reuse and recycling efforts, benefiting both the local economy and the environment.