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For more than a decade, Geelong locals have driven past the infamous Big Red Shed wondering what might become of it. Now, the long-vacant landmark is finally getting a second life – and it's a fitting match for a business built around giving old things a new purpose. On August 27, Savers Australia will officially open a massive new thrift superstore inside the former Melbourne Road site, marking the retailer's first store outside metropolitan Melbourne in more than 20 years.
Spanning 2,300 square metres, the new Geelong outpost will be packed with thousands of secondhand treasures, from vintage fashion and designer accessories to homewares and books. Better still, the majority of items are expected to cost less than $10 (on average across all categories), with thousands of fresh donations hitting the shop floor every day.
The opening will breathe new life into one of Geelong's best-known retail buildings, which has sat empty for years. Savers will occupy one half of the revitalised site, with Petbarn set to move into the neighbouring tenancy.
Before shoppers can start filling their baskets, locals will have the chance to stock the shelves. On July 27, Savers will open a Community Donation Centre at the site, where Geelong residents can drop off quality pre-loved clothing, homewares and other reusable goods. Those donations will support Diabetes Victoria, with Savers purchasing donated items from the charity to help fund diabetes research, support programs and community services across the state. Over the past five years, Savers has paid more than $20 million to its Australian charity partners, while its network of stores diverts around ten million kilograms of reusable goods from landfill every year.
Whether you're looking to add some vintage gems to your wardrobe without blowing the budget or just want an excuse to step back inside the Big Red Shed, this long-awaited reopening sounds to us like an excellent excuse for a Geelong day trip.
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