Emmaus, a second-hand store in Norrböle, is set to open a new 270 square meter building aimed at improving customer experience and promoting local textile reuse.
Emmaus, a notable second-hand store in Norrböle, is undergoing a significant expansion to enhance both customer experience and operational sustainability. The new building, covering 270 square meters, is set to open its doors on May 10. Despite ongoing construction, the store remains operational, providing services as usual.
When representatives from Ålandstidningen visited the site, construction activity was visibly underway, with workers Endijs Brande and Armins Osis from Scandibygg dismantling a wall that separates the existing structure from the new addition. The sound of construction echoed as the wall came down with a noticeable thud.
Robert Jansson, operations manager for Emmaus, articulated the dual motivations behind the expansion, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to sustainability. “We want to reuse more on Åland, especially clothes,” Jansson explained. He pointed out that over the years, Emmaus has sent a considerable volume of textiles to various places worldwide, but recent reports regarding textile waste scandals have prompted a reevaluation of this practice. The organization aims to minimize outbound textile shipments and redirect efforts towards local reuse.
While Emmaus still maintains collaborations for sending some textiles to Estonia and Poland, especially in support of Ukraine, the focus is shifting to enhancing local reuse opportunities. This pivot aligns with the growing demand for second-hand goods, a market that has been steadily expanding in recent years. “We see a slight increase year by year. Statistics from Svensk Handel show that second-hand sales are increasing significantly, especially online,” Jansson remarked. He asserted the intention to facilitate local shopping for those interested in second-hand options.
The forthcoming section of the store will mainly feature clothing, substantially expanding an already existing but smaller clothing area. Jansson noted the significance of this new section, stating it will be comparable in size to the store’s offering on Strandgatan. He expressed curiosity regarding the potential effects this expansion might have on sales across their other locations.
In addition to the retail space, the design of the new premises is being carefully considered to create a welcoming environment. Upcoming enhancements include oiling the floor and installing wooden paneling on the walls, helping transform the space into a warmer atmosphere, moving away from a stark, metallic ambiance.
Interior design consultant Eva-Jo Hancock is assisting in crafting these inviting solutions. Though there will not be a dedicated café area, there will be designated spaces available for visitors to socialize and engage with others.
The expansion also facilitates organizing community events and workshops. Jansson highlighted that the new section will offer improved accessibility compared to previous facilities, which had physical barriers such as higher thresholds. He reiterated that the aim of Emmaus extends beyond merely selling second-hand goods. “We want Emmaus to be more than just a store. It should be a meeting place where people can come together and discuss,” he stated.
As the project moves forward, Emmaus’ new space is anticipated to play a key role in enhancing both the shopping experience and the organization’s community engagement efforts. With the store’s focus on sustainability and fostering social connections, the upcoming opening is eagerly awaited by both staff and patrons alike.
Source: Noah Wire Services
