Vancouver’s Thriving Thrift Scene: The Comeback of Brick-and-Mortar Shops
Thrifting has long been a popular pastime in Vancouver, especially with the rise of online platforms like Depop and Instagram. However, in 2025, a fresh trend is emerging: local entrepreneurs are taking the plunge into physical storefronts. Why? Because the thrill of in-person shopping offers something that digital platforms can’t match. This article explores how a new generation of thrift shop owners is transforming the landscape of resale shopping in Vancouver, creating vibrant communities where clothes can be seen, touched, and tried on.
Let’s dive deeper into this fascinating revival of thrift stores and meet some of the trailblazers leading the charge.
Woven: A Heartfelt Comeback After Adversity
For Nicole McConnell, reopening Woven after a devastating fire was never a question of «if,» but rather «how.»
«I’ve always preferred physical shops; selling online feels limiting,» she confesses. Clothes should be felt, tried on, and experienced in person. That’s the essence of Woven.
After the fire, Nicole faced uncertainty, yet her resolve remained strong. Woven will never be just a website; it’s a community hub. The unique atmosphere of her store allows customers to connect with the clothes on a personal level.
Currently, she operates from a temporary pop-up at Assembly, thanks to the generosity of local developers. “It’s a challenge with high rent and expenses, but the community shows up for something genuine,” she notes.
Looking ahead, Nicole envisions Woven as a permanent fixture, emphasizing that the human element of shopping is irreplaceable.
Knockout Thrift: From Online to Local Staple
Abi Arabi, the visionary behind Knockout Thrift, started her journey by selling secondhand items online at just 14. After years of eBay stardom, she opened her brick-and-mortar store in Strathcona, fulfilling a long-held dream.
“I began my online business in grade 9… it consumed my life for years!” she recalls. Yet, people kept asking for a physical location. The demand was clear, and Abi knew it was time to transition.
Her shop on Hastings Street fills a unique niche in the neighborhood. “There’s nothing quite like this around here. I feel like I’m meeting a vintage need,” she shares.
Now settled, Abi looks forward to hosting clothing swaps and workshops, fostering a creative community. Having a permanent shop opens doors to new possibilities. She’s already dreaming of expanding to a second location.
The Find: Luxury Resale in West Vancouver
Sarah Marschall of The Find began her journey with an online-only model, specializing in pre-loved designer items. When the chance for a physical store in West Vancouver appeared, she seized it.
“Clients purchasing luxury items want to experience them in person,” Sarah explains. A tangible connection builds trust that online shopping simply can’t replicate.
The warm welcome from locals and fellow business owners has been encouraging. “This space embodies the vibe of our brand—welcoming and engaging,” she states.
For Sarah, the store is more than a retail space; it’s a gathering place. It’s about community, conversation, and exploration. The brick-and-mortar presence has significantly enriched the customer experience.
The Importance of Physical Stores in Thrifting
These inspiring stories illustrate the resurgence of physical thrift shops in Vancouver. While online sales continue to thrive, the unique experiences offered by local entrepreneurs are bringing a fresh perspective to thrifting.
As Nicole aptly puts it: “If I can keep the lights on and people keep coming in, I’m in for the long haul.” The future of thrifting is not just about transactions; it’s about building connections and creating memorable experiences.
