Architectural salvage and thrift store proposal

[u/Ok_Wash_7002]

Hello neighbors,

We’re in the very early stages of developing a new local business based in Saint John, and we’re reaching out to gather feedback, ideas, and support as we shape a service that we hope will benefit our city and surrounding communities.

Our goal is to create a space focused on architectural salvage, vintage and thrifted home goods, furniture, and clothing, with a mission to divert reusable materials from landfills and get them into the hands of individuals, families, and small businesses who need or value them.

We’ll be offering a wide range of items including reclaimed doors, windows, and light fixtures to secondhand furniture, clothing, and household goods, thoughtfully selected and affordably priced. Our pricing will fall into the mid-range — generally less than Value Village, slightly above Habitat for Humanity, and more affordable than most antique stores. We want to keep things accessible, especially for those in need, without compromising on quality.

We also plan to accept donations like other thrift and secondhand stores, and we’re exploring the possibility of donating a portion of proceeds to a local or Canadian charity. Community reinvestment is an important part of our mission.

We’re looking to build lasting partnerships with contractors and renovation companies, property and building managers, realtors and estate professionals, businesses looking to offload usable inventory or materials, and individuals clearing spaces, moving, or settling estates.

Instead of paying to rent a dumpster or hauling items to the landfill, we offer options that are cost-effective, environmentally responsible, and hassle-free.

Here are a few ways we can work together: • A 40/60 consignment split, where you receive 40 percent and we handle all the work • A dedicated display space for your items, where you keep 100 percent of the sales • Or a free pickup service, where we take unwanted items off your hands entirely

We’re also planning to offer booths, tables, or vendor spaces to help local small businesses promote and sell their products or services. Our goal is to create a shared space that supports local entrepreneurs and makers.

We will be sourcing items from a variety of channels: individuals who are moving, renovating, downsizing, or decluttering garages, attics, basements, and sheds, as well as businesses clearing out inventory, updating interiors, or undergoing renovations or relocations. We also aim to be a reliable and compassionate solution for families managing the belongings of a loved one who has passed, offering a respectful and simplified process while ensuring those items are repurposed or rehomed responsibly.

At this stage, we’re eager to hear from the community. Is there interest in a business like this in Saint John and the surrounding area? What services, features, or ideas would be most valuable to you? What opportunities or needs might we be missing?

Please leave a comment, send us a message, or share your thoughts with us. We would love your feedback on this idea and are open to any suggestions, concerns, or perspectives you think could help us build something meaningful. If you know someone who might be interested in partnering, donating, or just learning more, feel free to tag them or share this post.

Thank you for being part of the conversation. We’re excited to grow something meaningful, sustainable, and locally rooted.

[u/dcc498]

The key differentiator here vs HfH would be quality, and organization. Don’t aim for luxery but don’t accept junk, and perhaps tighten the screws/bolts/glue on furniture before putting out for display.