For weeks, passers-by have stopped in front of the Vinnies window in Braddon and waved at the automatic doors hoping they would open.
The wait is finally over with the charity announcing the "highly anticipated" shop is set to open its doors this week.
Vinnies will unveil its first inner-city location on Lonsdale Street this Friday, just in time for the holidays.
"We are thrilled to be opening in time for Christmas to give people a sustainable way to purchase gifts and decorations," Lindsay Rae, director of commercial operations at Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn, said.
He said the 600 square metre space had been designed from scratch and followed the theme of a circular economy. He added the store's reclaimed roof sheeting and "bespoke" fittings and fixtures would match the "hip culture" of the local neighbourhood.
"We are so proud of what we have created on Lonsdale Street in Braddon," Rae said.
Volunteers at the store have been busy setting up colourful displays for the past few weeks, continuously peaking the curiosity of those walking past. The op shop appears to already house a variety of products from clothes, shoes and furniture to accessories.
"The flagship shop we hope will become a thrifter's paradise tapping into local demand for vintage fashion. We have racks bursting with more colour than a gigantic box of Skittles and with bargains just as sweet," Rae said.
He said Vinnies Braddon would be the 28th shop in the region to offer a place for "connection, volunteering and giving back."
"Quality donations made by the community find new homes through the Vinnies shops which in turn funds the much-needed support for those in need in Canberra," the spokesperson said.
Local mural artists have also collaborated with the charity to transform two blank walls on Lonsdale Street into vibrant works of art and draw eyes to the new store.
The network of stores run by St Vincent de Paul Society take part in diverting millions of items from landfills each year. The op shops are a popular way for people to shop without adding to fashion waste while also supporting a charity, Rae said.
Vinnies Braddon will open on November 24, at 9am. The op-shop will be open 7 days a week with late-night trading offered on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
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