Selfridges has launched The Stock Market at the Corner Shop, a month-long immersive experience that puts a strong emphasis on sustainability and circularity. The aim of this unique initiative is to help customers uncover the value of their existing possessions, promote the exchange of items for Selfridges credit, and actively engage in the restoration and upcycling of clothing and accessories. The Corner Shop, inspired by the bustling trading floor of the London Stock Exchange, has been transformed into an interactive “trading floor” where customers can partake in buying, selling, repairing, and upcycling activities.
At The Stock Market, Reselfridges stockbrokers are stationed at the “trading desk,” encouraging customers to enhance the value of their products with the intention of either keeping them or reselling them. These knowledgeable stockbrokers connect visitors with leading circular services provided by SOJO, SneakersER, The Handbag Clinic, Vintage Threads, and resident upcyclers. The goal is to highlight signs of wear and tear as points of pride and interest, whether through hand-beaded moth holes or bespoke customizations like frills and applique.
The launch of The Stock Market aligns with Worn Again, a season-long celebration of secondhand and circular shopping experiences at Selfridges. The Worn Again initiative, running until August, explores innovative ideas, collaborations, and events aimed at prolonging the lifespan of products and amplifying the joy and reciprocity of secondhand shopping. Selfridges has set an ambitious target of achieving 45% of its transactions from circular products and services by 2030, reflecting its commitment to sustainability.
The Stock Market at the Corner Shop offers a range of sustainable services to visitors. First, customers can have their wardrobe items, such as shoes and accessories, assessed by expert authenticators to determine their value. They have the option to sell these items to Selfridges in exchange for store credit. Additionally, a thoughtfully curated selection of secondhand clothing and accessories is available from esteemed partners like Vintage Threads and The Handbag Clinic.
Another key aspect of The Stock Market is the opportunity to extend the life of worn and cherished items through various repair and restoration services. Experts from The Handbag Clinic, Vintage Threads, SneakersER, and SOJO offer services such as bag repainting, leather restoration, clothing upcycling and downcycling, as well as sneaker and shoe restoration.
To cater to customers’ tailoring needs, a team of expert tailors from SOJO is available to provide alterations for clothing. Whether it’s hemming, waist adjustments, button reattachments, or zipper additions, these skilled professionals ensure that each garment fits perfectly.
Moreover, The Corner Shop plays host to a rotating group of upcyclers in residence who offer daily sessions on reviving wardrobes. These upcycling experts showcase various techniques, including screen printing, appliqué, tassel and tie adornments, and mending and reknitting. Attendees can book two-hour slots for these sessions, with profits from ticket sales being donated to Oxfam.
The Stock Market at the Corner Shop will be open from May 15th to June 10th, providing a transformative and sustainable shopping experience where customers can actively participate in circular practices and contribute to a more environmentally conscious future.
