Salvation Army Thrift Store in Rutland reopens after makeover

It may have been raining on Saturday, but that didn’t stop around 100 people from gathering to be the first inside the new-look Salvation Army Thrift Store in Rutland.

There was a party atmosphere around the store’s long-awaited grand reopening, with entertainment, appearances from local athletes and officials, snacks, music and more.

Those who braved the wet weather to be there on Saturday were the first to see the results of the store’s makeover.

Changes to the store focused on racking, shelving, fixtures, lighting, paint and plenty more, with a newly-designed layout aimed to improve the shopping experience.

While things may look a little different inside, shoppers can expect to continue finding great deals on highly-quality, gently-used apparel, toys, jewelry, books, housewares, entertainment and plenty more.

“The only things that have not changed is our great deals and service,” says Lenetta Parry, the Salvation Army’s community engagement and resource manager.

“We could not have asked for a better turn out and more positive response from the community,” added Parry. “We were thrilled to see some of our regular shoppers and meet new guests who were visiting us for the first time.”

Parry thanked Rainbow Painting, Manchester Signs Printing and Graphics, store manager Lisa Marie Pettovello, merchandising supervisor Cindy Brewster and all the staff and volunteers for their efforts during the makeover.

The Rutland location is one of two Salvation Army Thrift Stores in the Central Okanagan, with the other being in Westbank.

The Rutland store (200 Rutland Rd S) is open 10 am until 5 pm, Mondays through Saturdays, with the donation centre open from 10 am until 2 pm, Tuesdays through Saturdays.