St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria is planning to open eight new stores across the state amid growing demand.
In the coming months, Vinnies will open stores in Fitzroy, Prahran, Mount Waverley, Belmont, Portland and a pop-up shop in Ascot Vale.
"Our expansion reflects the increasing demand for our services and the growing popularity of thrifting," Vinnies Victoria general manager of retail Neil Harvey said.
“Each new shop will be a hub of local community support, sustainable fashion and unique finds. As we grow, the need for quality donations is more critical than ever."
Last year alone, Vinnies Victoria sold nearly 720,000 more garments than the previous year. Vinnies claimed the popularity of thrifting is at an all-time high, driven by consumers seeking unique, budget-friendly and sustainable fashion choices.
Alongside this growth, Vinnies has managed to reduce dumped items by 90 per cent through an ongoing awareness campaign, which included extending store hours.
The charity is also on a mission to minimise landfill footprint. In any given year, Vinnies waste is between 1.50 per cent and 1.80 per cent of sales.
Ahead of new store openings, Vinnies Victoria is calling on the public for more donations.
“Your donations help stock your local shop, new shops, give items a second life and support essential local community services across the state,” Harvey said. “During winter, Vinnies particularly needs warm clothing and homewares.
“Every donation directly supports our mission and helps us continue to expand our services to assist Victorians in need in their local communities."
Vinnies Victoria reported it had provided $20.7 million in assistance over the 2023-2024 period.