Second-hand clothing initiative thrives in Trondheim’s self-service thrift shop by Solveig Valbjørn Knudsen

Second-hand clothing has surged in popularity, with thrift stores and platforms like Tise and Finn becoming hot spots for bargain hunters. However, Solveig Valbjørn Knudsen has taken a unique approach by setting up her own self-service thrift shop right outside her door.

“It’s much more approachable than spending all day at a flea market or managing messages and deals when selling on Tise,” she explains. Knudsen believes her initiative, dubbed “Tillitsbutikken” or “Trust Shop,” enhances the neighborhood.

Originally from Copenhagen, she has observed similar unattended shops there. Outside her home in Møllenberg, Trondheim, dresses, skirts, and sweaters hang from a rack. If someone decides to take an item, there is no cashier; they simply send a payment via mobile payment app and take the garment.

“It’s nice to contribute to something positive in the neighborhood,” Knudsen says. As an architecture student at NTNU, she’s keen on making neighborhoods and living environments better. Møllenberg is a student area, and past events have at times created friction with other residents.

Despite primarily positive interactions, she has experienced some theft, which she had anticipated. Nevertheless, most people pay for what they take.

Trondheim’s city architect, Are Risto Øyasæter, praises Knudsen’s shop, viewing it as a valuable addition that livens the city. He emphasizes that fostering trust among neighbors is key to building community.

Knudsen hopes her idea inspires others, having seen a friend open a similar shop elsewhere in Trondheim. She believes these self-service second-hand shops can bring life to neighborhoods and provide an easy way to share items no longer needed.