15/08/2023 - Luton’s first pop-up reuse shop a big hit and date set for another

FCC Environment, in partnership with Luton Council, hosted Luton’s first pop-up reuse shop where residents had the opportunity to pick up a variety of preloved bargains at a fraction of the cost of buying new.

On the day 260 visitors popped by and 104 pre-loved items were sold including bikes, toys, furniture, garden items and homeware. The proceeds raised from the pop-up shop will help support local charities in Luton, including Keech Hospice who provide palliative care and respite for both adults and children with life limiting illness. The event was such a hit with residents that a date for the next pop up has been set for Saturday 26 August.

Jon Melling, FCC Environment’s Contract Manager for Luton commented, “It was a fantastic first event! Thank you to the many residents who came along to pick up a bargain and support us on the day. The pop-up would not have been possible without the hard work of the team and the donations received at Luton’s two recycling centres.”

Donating good quality, preloved items at the recycling centres is easy. Just tell the site operatives what you have to donate and they will put it into the reuse container for you. By passing on your items you are not only helping local charities but also helping the environment by preventing the carbon emissions associated with manufacturing new products.

Cllr Hazel Simmons MBE, Leader of Luton Council, said “I’m glad that people got on board with our first reuse event. The donated items could have been turned into rubbish but by having the pop up it meant they could be given a new lease of life. We’re sure the next event will be as successful so if you’ve got something you’d like to donate please drop it down to one of our tidy tips so it can be used – one person’s junk is another person’s treasure!"

The next pop-up reuse shop will take place Saturday 26 August, 10am-2pm at Eaton Green Tidy Tip, Eaton Green Rd, Wigmore, Luton LU2 9RT.