Since its launch in October 2023, ReStore has become a vibrant hub on campus, offering a range of services that support students and our wider university community, and is making huge strides in encouraging students and shoppers to live more sustainably.

Nestled in Alexandra Square, ReStore has been supported by philanthropy since its beginning, with donor funding being used to help in the set up and infrastructure of the shop, creating an inviting space that encourages customers to consider more sustainable shopping habits and social responsibility.

ReStore is a collaboration between Lancaster University, St John’s Hospice and Green Lancaster, and as well as providing a dedicated shop on campus, they play an active role in supporting community-based activity. A special area within the store showcases products from local makers and small businesses, giving them a valuable outlet for crafts and handmade items.

The store has supported the daughter of a university staff member, who sells her beaded jewellery in ReStore to help fund her BMX biking ambitions. Her success highlights how the shop not only promotes sustainability but also supports the fundraising efforts and passions of people within and beyond the Lancaster community.

ReStore also provides meaningful opportunities for students. By volunteering in activities such as the ‘Sorting Saturday’ events, students can earn points towards ‘The Lancaster Award’, a scheme which rewards students for taking part in extra-curricular activities.

Other events include an eco-market at the start of term, offering discounted household essentials for new students, and the popular ‘Fill a Bag’ initiative, where students can choose a bag’s worth of clothing for a set price. The store also sells university merchandise which is always quite popular among students, staff and visitors.

Since its opening, ReStore has delivered an increasing range of initiatives with sustainability at its heart, and with exciting plans in the pipeline to expand on what the store can offer, ReStore Retail Manager Emily shares how the backing of our supporters has set the store off to a fantastic start:

“ReStore Lancaster would like to thank our university donors and alumni for their generosity in providing vital funds to enable us to furnish the shop allowing us to offer a sustainable alternative to conventional shopping in Lancaster. ReStore not only helps reduce waste, but also foster a culture of social responsibility among students, staff and the community. We have been open for two years the shop is going from strength to strength, and we can really see that ReStore is now more than just a shop, but a hub for learning, sharing, and making a difference.”

Emily Rawcliffe, ReStore Retail Manager