Thrifting is experiencing a renaissance in Calgary, moving beyond its reputation as a last resort for bargain hunters. Once viewed as dimly lit spaces filled with outdated items, thrift stores are now vibrant hubs of discovery, driven by economic and environmental factors.
The Rise of Thrifting in Calgary
According to Dominique Norman-Rance, a Gen Z nursing student and avid thrifter, the city's thrift scene is booming. “Calgary’s thrifting scene is booming, thrift stores are popping up left, right and centre,” she said. This surge is fueled by a growing population nearing two million, which means more items are donated or consigned, offering a sustainable alternative to overconsumption.
A study by Angus Reid and DIG360, reported by Retail Insider, found that 77 per cent of Canadian consumers purchased secondhand in the past year. Among them, 77 per cent cited affordability as a key motivator, while 73 per cent pointed to sustainability. Younger generations are leading the trend, with 86 per cent of Gen Z and 83 per cent of Millennials embracing thrift shopping.
Community Over Competition
Thrift store operators emphasize that these spaces are less about profit and more about community. Stephanie Sterling, chairperson for the MEOW Foundation, which runs charity shops, likens the experience to a treasure hunt. “They might not find it on the Goodwill shelf; they might find it on ours. And so from that perspective, I think we’re more of a community than we are competition,” she said.
Spotlight on Good Thrift in Chinatown
One standout is Good Thrift, nestled in a basement along Chinatown. Opened in 2023, it supports Good Neighbour, a non-profit providing meals and clothing to the unhoused. Manager Jess West describes it as a low-pressure space. “It’s just a fun, cool spot for people to come, with zero pressure to have to spend money,” she said. All profits, minus operational costs, go back to the community, and the store also gives away essentials like winter coats and boots.
Calgary’s thrift scene offers something for everyone, from curated collectives like Kept Collective in the Beltline, where owner Heather Hill encourages an eclectic mix of styles, to charity shops that foster camaraderie. Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or a newcomer, the city’s secondhand landscape is ripe for exploration.
