Helsinki: Itis shopping centre is set to launch a dedicated second-hand retail hub featuring three stores on 28 February 2025. The initiative reflects growing demand for sustainable fashion among younger consumers, aiming to provide a seamless shopping experience while promoting circular fashion practices.
Itis shopping centre in Helsinki is poised to enhance its retail offerings with the launch of a dedicated second-hand retail hub, set to open on 28 February 2025. This initiative aims to meet the rising demand for sustainable fashion by providing a space that features three resale stores: On the Block, UFF, and the Salvation Army’s iCare.
The decision to introduce this second-hand section is supported by research from the Finnish Commerce Federation, which highlights a significant interest in purchasing used clothing and shoes, particularly among women under the age of 35. Johanna Tolppola, the marketing manager at Itis, remarked on the trend, noting that “second-hand shopping has become a major consumer trend, especially among younger customers.” Tolppola expressed the shopping centre’s intention to adapt its offerings to better serve the community, based on feedback from younger visitors who seek high-quality second-hand clothing that reflects their individual style choices.
The second-hand hub, located in Piazza on the second floor, is designed to provide a seamless shopping experience, allowing customers to browse a diverse array of items all under one roof. Linda Turunen, a postdoctoral researcher at Aalto University who studies sustainable consumption and the evolving landscape of the fashion industry, explained the significance of this trend, stating, “Second-hand shopping has become an integral part of fashion retail, driven by its uniqueness, affordability, and sustainability.” Turunen further highlighted the convenience of locating second-hand stores within shopping centres, as it allows customers to merge errands and shopping trips into a single outing.
Among the stores within the new hub, On the Block will be a fresh addition, founded by sisters passionate about promoting circular fashion. Anni Purovuo, one of the founders, described their vision for the store, stating, “We are creating a colourful and inspiring thrift store that promotes a recycling culture while making second-hand shopping easy, enjoyable, and stylish.” Purovuo expressed personal ties to Itis, mentioning it as a significant place from their childhood, where they hope to attract both local residents and visitors.
The Salvation Army’s iCare store aims to offer a broad range of clothing and homeware, including décor items, while also providing a convenient platform for customers to donate unused goods. Heli Suomi, head of iCare retail operations, acknowledged the strategic advantages of setting up in a central location, affirming that it would enhance service for their customers and contribute to the shopping centre’s diverse offerings.
Completing the second-hand hub, UFF plans to relocate its operations from Turunlinnantie into Itis, offering a curated selection of second-hand clothing, footwear, accessories, and home textiles. Tiia Rahkola, the regional sales manager at UFF, expressed excitement about the opportunity to be part of this new initiative, stating, “When Itis began developing this second-hand hub, it was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up.” Rahkola expressed hope that the new cluster will capture the interest of shoppers in the area.
The official opening of the Itis second-hand hub will take place at 10:00 on 28 February, with celebrations extending over the weekend until Sunday, 2 March, concluding at 18:00.
Source: Noah Wire Services
