SPCA Op Shops helping animals, people and the planet

SPCA is a founding member of Charitable Reuse Aotearoa, a new organisation bringing together charities working in New Zealand’s reuse sector.

The organisation’s first impact study, found New Zealand’s charitable reuse sector reinvests an estimated $78 million into social and environmental programmes each year, helps households save around $420 a year through second-hand shopping, and keeps more than 41,000 tonnes of goods out of landfill.

SPCA was one of the organisations involved in the study, alongside The Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, Hospice New Zealand and Hato Hone St John.

“The impact study findings reinforce the important role SPCA Op Shops play in supporting animals, communities and more sustainable shopping choices,” says Cathy Crichton, SPCA General Manager, Retail.

“Our Op Shops help fund SPCA’s animal welfare work, but this study shows their impact reaches much further. Every item donated, sorted and sold reduces pressure on landfill and our Op Shops create welcoming spaces where communities can support a cause they care about.”

The research is a timely reminder of the value created by charitable retail, as more New Zealanders look for sustainable and affordable ways to shop.

“Our Op Shop volunteers and teams are at the heart of this impact. Their efforts turns donated goods into real support for animals and real benefits for people and the planet.”

SPCA acknowledges the donors, shoppers, staff and volunteers who make this work possible.