The Hull store that’s cutting waste by giving a second life to pre-loved homewares
Hull’s newest Re-Use shop is thriving as it highlights the environmental and financial benefits of giving a second life to items that would otherwise have been taken to a household waste recycling centre.
Dove House Hospice launched the shop on Beverley Road in January and the charity has already welcomed hundreds of visitors through its doors looking to snap up a deal.
Shoppers hunting for everything from kitchen essentials and furniture to sports equipment, antiques and collectables have already visited the outlet, which opened following the success of Dove House’s shop at Humberfield Household Waste and Recycling Centre in the East Riding and its Re-Use Electricals shop on Hessle Road in Hull.
All three shops thrive on their simplicity. The vast array of high-quality items to hit the shelves are donated to, and diverted from, Hull City and East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s network of 13 household waste recycling centres, thanks to the councils’ partnership with FCC Environment.
The shop’s Re-Use vans are on the road each weekday, collecting items from the recycling centres. The daily operation means new stock is being delivered to the Beverley Road store all the time – so there are always fresh bargains to tempt shoppers.
Prices are keen, with lots of everyday kitchen goods for under £5, as well as home décor items for under £10 and smaller items of furniture at an average price of around £15.
Commenting on the growing demand for second-hand items, Carly Trickett, area manager for Dove House Hospice, says: “I think the cost-of-living crisis is the main driver for our customer base, but we also have lots of eco-conscious customers too. I think it’s also become more acceptable in society to buy second-hand. People aren’t embarrassed to buy pre-loved anymore, much the opposite in fact - people love to brag about how cheap they got something now!
“Reuse is preferable in terms of sustainable waste management and recycling. The more we can divert goods for reuse and keep them for longer, the better.
“The shop is doing really well. It’s nice to see our regulars, as well as some new faces. The variety of stock since we launched as the Re-Use store has definitely brought in some new customers who want to make their homes look great for a good price – and every sale helps fund Dove House’s vital work.”
Doug Sharp, head of street cleansing and waste management at Hull City Council, added: “It’s been a couple of months since the Re-Use shop launched and it’s brilliant to hear how many people have already visited.
“We know that many families in our area are struggling in the current financial climate so Dove House’s efforts to provide a solution that also promotes waste reduction is an asset. It provides a great opportunity for residents to purchase good quality items at a reasonable price.
“The store is also an invaluable part of Hull City Council’s sustainable waste management strategy and contributes towards our commitment to carbon reduction.”