Many years ago, we moved from Liverpool to a small Welsh village. Our local shoppingwas the afternoon spent in Oswestry where we spent time browsing The Catalogue Surplus Shop. It had everything we needed without us having to travel into a city.
On purchasing the store in June 2024, saving something was at the forefront of our mission. To save a store that is an integral part of the local and wider community. To save the jobs of people who had been made redundant, and to save a way of people being able to continue to use the high street, especially those unable to use the internet to shop for goods that they need to keep them clothed and warm.
We have since learnt about the impact that providing surplus stock has on the environment alongside the socioeconomic benefits for those local and visiting Oswestry.
Waste is a massive problem in the fashion industry, only 15% is recycled or donated, and the rest goes directly to the landfill or is incinerated. Synthetic fibres such as polyester, are plastic fibres, therefore non-biodegradable and can take up to 200 years to decompose. Synthetic fibres are used in 69% of our clothing.
We all want to look our best, save some cash AND do our bit for the environment and that’s where we at the Surplus Station can do our bit. Willow Street has become a very important place for us. We have met so many locals and when we’re asked to provide something we try our best to make it happen. One previous owner Tracy, sadly passed and her brother Mark, has become a good friend and champion for us at The Surplus Station.
We look forward to growing the store to provide clothing for all ages in Oswestry for many years to come. Call in, find what you need and see the friendly faces you already know.
Find us at 21 Willow Street, Oswestry, SY11 1AQ or follow us on Facebook @The Surplus Station Ltd.
