Non-profit store Ten Thousand Villages recently marked a significant milestone, celebrating 30 years of operation in Old Town, Alexandria. Known for its commitment to fair trade, the store offers a diverse range of handcrafted goods from over 35 countries, supporting artisans and promoting ethical consumerism.
Key Takeaways
- Established in 1994: The Alexandria location of Ten Thousand Villages opened its doors in 1994, becoming a vital part of the local community.
- Fair Trade Focus: The store emphasizes fair trade practices, ensuring artisans receive fair compensation for their work.
- Diverse Product Range: From jewelry to home decor, the store features unique items crafted by international artisans.
- Resilience Through Challenges: Despite facing economic fluctuations, including inflation and the COVID-19 pandemic, the store has adapted and thrived.
A Legacy of Fair Trade
Founded in 1946, Ten Thousand Villages has grown into a network of non-profit retail stores across the United States. The Alexandria location has become a beloved fixture on King Street, known for its vibrant selection of fair trade products. Kate McMahon, the managing director since 2008, reflects on the store’s journey, noting that while the non-profit’s mission remains steadfast, the retail landscape has evolved dramatically.
Adapting to Change
McMahon highlights the challenges faced over the years, including economic downturns and the impact of the pandemic. "We had our best year in 2012/2013, but since then, we’ve navigated through various ups and downs," she said. Despite these challenges, the store has maintained a loyal customer base, drawn to its unique offerings.
Popular Products
The store features a wide array of products, with personal accessories like scarves and bags being the top sellers. McMahon notes, "Our handmade jewelry and personal accessories are our biggest categories. We have creative pieces made from materials like tagua nuts from South America and repurposed brass shell casings."
Recently, the store introduced quirky items like fabric cacti, which surprised McMahon with their popularity. "When they came in, I was like, ‘Are you serious?’ but they flew off the shelf!" This adaptability to customer preferences has been key to the store’s success.
Community Engagement
Ten Thousand Villages not only supports artisans globally but also engages with the local community. The store hosts events and workshops, fostering a sense of connection and awareness about fair trade practices. McMahon emphasizes the importance of educating customers about the impact of their purchases, encouraging them to consider the stories behind the products.
Looking Ahead
As Ten Thousand Villages celebrates its 30th anniversary in Old Town, the future looks bright. The store continues to uphold its mission of fair trade, providing a platform for artisans while enriching the local community. With a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, Ten Thousand Villages remains a beacon of hope and creativity in the retail landscape.
Ten Thousand Villages is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays, inviting everyone to explore its unique offerings and support fair trade.
