Vinnies Hawthorn

It's been closed lately, but it still appears as open on Google Maps, which was a nasty surprise. It would be very helpful to mark it as closed when they can't open. On the other hand, I really enjoyed going and finding useful things at a reasonable price for being second-hand, but lately I've found prices that are higher than what you pay in a store for something new, even for the same product. I understand that the goal is to raise funds, but you have to keep in mind that these kinds of stores also exist to help people who can't afford to buy something new, much less pay more for something already used.

I recently visited this store and witnessed an interaction that left me quite uncomfortable. While browsing, I observed a tall staff member, whom I believe was called Hannah, call Lorraine over to discuss a customer who was present in the store. I heard what was said and found it quite inappropriate, although I will not repeat it here. Lorraine appeared uncomfortable and seemed aware that the customer may have overheard the conversation. To Lorraine’s credit, she then treated the customer with kindness, warmth and professionalism. My low rating is not a reflection of Lorraine. It reflects the behaviour I observed from the other staff member. Every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, particularly in a charity store. I hope this matter is addressed.

I usually really enjoy visiting Vinnies and often find lovely items there, most staffs are very friendly and lovely, which is why today’s experience was so disappointing. While browsing the display cabinet, I asked a staff member to help open it so I could look at an item. She was already impatient and dismissive. Before I had even finished examining the item, she tried to take it back and lock the cabinet. Later, when I was carefully checking a 14K gold pendant priced at $160, she became visibly irritated, rolled her eyes, and even took the pendant directly out of my hand while I was still looking at it. She said there were many people waiting and she didn’t have time for me to examine it. When I explained that if I’m spending $160 on something I need to be able to look at it properly first, she replied: “This is a charity shop.” I found that response quite shocking and very disrespectful. Being a charity shop does not mean customers should be treated poorly, nor does it mean customers shouldn’t take time to examine an item before spending their money. Customers are still supporting the store and the charity through their purchases. I hope Vinnies takes this kind of behaviour seriously and reminds staffs especially Celia that basic respect and courtesy toward customers should always be part of the shopping experience.

Hidden gem of an opshop. I’m a bit thrown by reviews saying it’s expensive; I think it’s one of the best priced opshops around. The quality of clothes is very high, always lots of items from brands like Dangerfield, princess highway, forever new, kookai, Zara, etc, and always lots of good stuff in the half off or $2 rack! Staff have always been lovely too! By far my favourite op shop in Adelaide!

A large op shop with good variety. Neat, well organised with a spacious layout. Lots of books across most genres, DVDs and CDs. Good selection of kids clothes, books and some toys. Prices good on clothes, reasonable on most other things.