Thrifty Store research

Today I visited the Thrifty Store in Sheffield in order to gather imagery from which to work from later on this week. The most stand out event of the trip was when my friend tried on as many coats as she could, which ended up being 10 until we ran out of sizes big enough! I also got asked to put some of the photos I took up on their Facebook page with the prospect of being hired to take their photos, which is something I definitely didn't expect when I decided to visit. I found this day trip very informative as I was able to collect photographs, drawing, ephemera, recordings and quotes which work well together to really give a feel of the place. I asked the manager for some thoughts on the place and he directed me to an interview he undertook this month, some of my favourite parts of which were:

“I like to call it wonderland, the entrance is like the rabbit hole which opens into this big area full of amazing things.”

"HA! no one else has this, it’s mine, all mine"

"There’s a lot of males that like to dress as hookers"

In addition, it was very helpful to see the actual reality of trying on many coats one on top of each other, as I found both the visual outcomes and the actual experience of manhandling them onto my friend extremely beneficial in understanding how this action would actually be completed, and has made me very excited in pursuing my chosen topic.

Overheard/recordings:
"We don't charge for bags"
"It's awesome working here, we just get to try stuff on"
"Why don't you want the monks hat though?"
"Na mate, take what you like"

Music:
Courtney Barnett-Elevator Operator playing

History:
Because it's a relatively new shop, there isn't much history about the business, but  tried to find out as much as I could about the company and the building it's in.
-Built in 1962 and one of the first modernist department stores to be built in the UK
-Grade II listed building
-Originally built for the Co-op, and named Castle House because the store used to be located on the site of an old castle
-Moved into Castle House in September, and open seven days a week
-Has a 'sister' business in Huddersfield

Reviews on their Facebook page:
"So much stuff to rummage through it'll blow your mind. All in one place and all at great prices!!!"- Claire Pinder

"Quality shop!! You need to visit just make sure you have a few hours to spare! So much to rummage through!!!"- Jason Pinder

"I like to call it wonderland. The entrance is sort of like the rabbit hole then it opens up to a mysterious world of clothing."- Karl Beaumont

"Amazing store, amazing staff can't wait to be a model for your fellow self's. Pimp and hoe's here we come"- Tyler Johnson

"Looking forward to this bobby dazzler!! Great venue too love #TheNightKitchen"- Bally Johal

GIF of some photos of putting coats on