A CHARITY shop has reopened in Amesbury after it underwent a major refurbishment that saw huge community involvement.

The store on Earls Court Road is stocked full of quality furniture, small electrical items, clothing and accessories, books, and homewares.

The Amesbury Emporium officially reopened on Tuesday (July 29).

Both of Alabaré’s charity shops in Amesbury and Wilton are a “vital part” of the charity’s commitment to improving its community impact, while also growing its revenue to support services in the south west of England and Wales.

Every penny raised goes back into the charity’s work to break the cycle of homelessness, through providing homes, restoring hearts, and empowering minds.

The Emporium’s revamp has been made possible through a large community effort too.

Corporate partners, including Aspire Defence, spent time volunteering at the store to help with redecoration.

The charity was also joined by Benifex, who helped to merchandise the clothing area of the shop, by sorting donations, steam cleaning, and adding price tags.

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The Salisbury Men’s Shed installed new shelving and hanging rails, while JC Flooring provided new flooring at a heavily reduced price, with additional support from KBR, Eurocell, Marine Joinery, Wenzel’s Bakery, and the Balloon Boutique.

A dedicated team of volunteers is also vital in supporting the store’s operations, and we’re incredibly grateful for their time and energy.

Marge Goymer, Alabaré’s retail and logistics manager, said: “We’re so pleased to be able to welcome customers back into our Amesbury Emporium after a few months of closure.

“There’s been a huge amount of work that’s gone into getting the space ready for business once again, and we’re thankful for the support we’ve had during that process.

The store was officially opened by the Mayor of Amesbury, cllr Dr Monica Devendran (second left) and Malcolm Cassells, Chairman of Alabaré, with Marge Goymer, Retail and Logistics Manager (far left) and Agata Smigla, Store Manager (far right) Picture: Alabaré

“Anyone with donations that could help stock the store is encouraged to pop in and speak to the team, and we’d also be keen to hear from anyone who could spare some time to volunteer for us.

“There’s no restriction on age, you don’t need to do a certain number of hours, and there’s a wide range of roles available. Get in touch for more information.”

Chairman of Alabaré, Malcolm Cassells said he’s pleased to see the store open again.

“It’s an exciting moment, it’s good for Amesbury, and I think it’s also a community facility,” he said.

“It’s something that will enable people to come along, have a chat as they look around. It’s not just about the sales, which we absolutely need, it’s about helping people, supporting them.

“The new store is much lighter, the space is being used better, I think some of the goods we’re selling now are of a higher quality than previously.

“We’ve worked with local suppliers to get it ready, and we’re very grateful to them as they’ve enabled us to present something which I think is going to be a nice shopping experience for the people that come here.”

Mayor of Amesbury, councillor Dr Monica Devendran, attended the official store opening and said: “It’s brilliant, it’s a fantastic asset for the community, there are so many people coming together here, and I’ve heard lots of good things about the wonderful space Alabaré has created.

“It’s great to see the dedicated team of staff, who’ve put in their body, soul, and spirit, going above and beyond to make sure this serves as a wonderful space for the community.

“It will offer an opportunity for volunteers too, and it will be an excellent mental health and well-being initiative for the community under one roof.”

The Amesbury Emporium is open from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday.