Albemarle Thrift Shop – A Little Bit of Everything
By Rebecca Cross
Not only can you find just about anything at the Albemarle Thrift Shop – you can also shop while your kids are entertained. Partners Dale Patrick and Roger Stanley love kids and let them play with the many toys they have available in their shop. There is even a working Play Station set-up for the kids to play with while Mom shops. And, there is a lot of variety for Mom, or Dad, to shop for. The Thrift Shop has a wide selection of new and used items available including clothing, shoes, DVDs, games, electronics, toys, air conditioners, furniture, jewelry and collectibles. There are even chips and sodas for sale. “Customer Service is number one for us,” says Stanley, “If you spend $1 you are treated like you spent $1000.” He expressed what a great relationship he has with his customers. “People buy things and then turn around and bring me things that I can sell.”
Both owners were born and raised in Elizabeth City and want to be able to give back to the community they live in. Both men have been acquiring and collecting things for years at yard sales, auctions, and garage sales. “I always wanted to try [opening a thrift shop] and see if it would work,” said Patrick, “Something fun to do”. The thrift shop is clean and organized and has aisles wide enough for wheel chair access. There is even a full size fitting room available. Although the partners take donations, “We don’t sell junk,” explained Stanley, “Everything works!” They do not take consignment, but they do offer low prices. They understand that this is a difficult economic time for many people and they want to help people to get what they need. Some prices are even negotiable, “If I can help you I will,” said Stanley.
They love being downtown where “foot traffic is really good”. Ever since Bob Carsons helped them move in and open the shop on McMorrine Street, they have experienced a warm welcome from the downtown community. “Everyone’s been real nice; other business owners have been friendly and helpful and the customers have been great,” said Stanley.
Albemarle Thrift Shop is located at 115 N. McMorrine Street, across from the Colonial Restaurant. Their hours are Monday through Saturday 10am to 6pm and Sunday 1pm to 4pm; 252-548-4108.