The Second Hanger, a new opportunity for women's clothing
- Shops using the slogan have existed for more than 20 years in Panama.
- The business model establishes the sense of solidarity and reuse.
- Female entrepreneurs are working with the principle that 'what no longer serves for some, can be very useful to others'.
- Toward a collaborative model of consumption
If you're looking for them in shopping centers, you won't find them. Nor will you ever see ad campaigns for them. However, cruising the consignment shops which have existed for more than 20 years in Panama and, although perhaps not discussed much, they are not a secret.
Mrs. Elsa Nevah, owner of The Casita (in Betania), recalls that when she decided to open her business in 1996 there were already one or two shops of this kind.
"Consignment shops" refers to places where people bring their used clothing, the store sells and then divides the money between the seller and the supplier.
The model came from the United States, according to Roselind Baitel, who became a teacher in the Canal Zone and has 30 years living in Panama, of which 15 have been dedicated to her shop Promises.
Although it may be the perception that the existence of large shopping centers in the country (with different price offers), Panamanians do not opt for these stores, however their owners ensure that there is a market.
Baitel believes that while previously there was a stigma with respect to the used clothing among Panamanians, she, as the owner of the store that opened in 2000, has noticed some changes. For example, many Panamanians have studied abroad, visiting shops of consignment and "love them". "When they return to Panama they already understand the concept. In addition, it is a green business," she says.
On the other hand, Nevah perceives that "Panamanians, in general, likes brand name products. Others are looking for quality garments that look good and have a good price. I think a smart person wants to save".
To save, to achieve brand clothes at a more economical price, to find something original, or simply to give new life to the second-hand clothes in good condition, there are customers and suppliers faithful to this model, which even uses social networks as a showcase.
Wedding dresses, evening dresses, prom, something that she gave him and he did or didn't like it, or simply a garment that is no longer worn. Perhaps a person has clothing in their closet that is not being used, but it is in good condition and the individual does not know who to give it to or how to get something for it.
These clothes, purses or accessories might have a new opportunity in the consignment shops.
In shops such as Promises, The Casita and, more recently, Pilomena the products they receive must meet certain requirements.
The conditions that the three establishments are: that the clothing is clean, without holes or stains or odors. The presentation of the clothing at the time of display to these stores can help who is elected for the sale.
The items most widely sold are accessories, clothing for work or business, and evening wear, which in some cases is also rented.
"Because of infrastructure and space, we try to be a little organized, in that we have appointments, we know more or less how many items are going to come here and what it is they are going to bring, to ensure they do not bring things that are not saleable," explains Lourdes Arosemena of Pilomena.
There is no specific profile of consignantes, depending on Arosemena. "Any person I am sure that you have things funny in his closet and has good things that could apply to the sale".
In that sense, the model of Promises is different. The store works with charities. It is through these institutions that reaches the clothes. The money collected is given to the foundation that the donated.
"The people who buy receive an article of high value at a very low price. For them it is a win win", said Roselind Baitel, owner of the store.
In regard to The Casita, the profits are shared in equal parts. (50/50)
Who purchases from these stores? "People like you and me. Professional people, young people, media people, politics, a lot of people in the diplomatic corps, schools, banks," says Baitel.
Eco chic
Pilomena is a small shop with two years of existence. When you enter it gives the impression of being a boutique of new clothes, and for the Arosemena sisters, that presentation is important.
Among its policies is the concept " eco chic", which looks for three components: the clothes are as new, reusable and have style. "For us, the brand is not so important, in fact, it is not important. If you have an interesting brand, well; but if it doesn't and has a lot of style, we are guided a little more by style" says Lourdes.
The store is posing a draft of corporate social responsibility, to teach sewing to young people who need opportunities and draw a line of ready-made clothing from which is not sold.
Baby 'Bazaar'
As a mother, Nicole Gonzalez knows that clothes of infants and young children are outgrown quickly, although usually in very good condition. A television program that sells children's clothes inspired her to create Baby Bazaar.
Along with Dominque Buitrago, her partner, she sells second-hand clothes for newborns up to seven-year-olds, by means of a Facebook page.
"In the beginning we had the fear or doubt that people would not accept second hand clothing, but the response has been very good. Once a month we have bazaars in public places. Little by little they realize that the merchandise is in good condition, and that we have a good eye for selection," says Gonzalez.
The advantage of this type of business, according to Buitrago, is that customers can also pick from other provinces. "Our market in other provinces is 60 %. We serve the people of Colon, Penonome, Aguadulce, and Chitre".
And on the virtual shop, she believes that "there has been a growth by the reception they have had on social networks at the local level. The entry of smartphones makes it viable".
- See more at: http://www.prensa.com/cultura/segundo-perchero-oportunidad-vestimenta-usada_0_4195830555.html#sthash.w3l2HXfE.dpuf
Replies
Do you mean "bajareque," the misty rain that occurs here? I didn't know there was a store by that name. Where is it?
Gonna bust some tags.
You can tell a lot about a person by their choice of music.
Well shame on your 80-ish church lady cause that is one nasty song. Yuck!
Well I suppose that might be a good thing but their taste in music is still pretty raunchy. LOL
Yeah, it did me too when you told me who turned you on to it.
I and my business friends in California used Clothing Consignment stores all the time.
This is a true "Win Win" situation.
Best of luck to all involved here in Panama.
Be sure to put out the word if any open up in Chiriqui!
Ready to go shopping.
P. S. Larger Sizes needed.. Most Panamanian Large/extra large..won't even fit over my arm..LOL
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