New Owners Breathe New Life Into The Trading Post

It might be easy to dismiss a consignment store as a potential location for holiday gift shopping.

That would be a mistake.

Many consignment shops have new, or barely used merchandise, including some items in the original packaging. They also tend to have unusual, collectible items that you won't see elsewhere.

Tewksbury has such a _shop in The Trading Post_. Located at 725 Main St., right __ The Trading Post has a little of this and a little of that ... and a few other things too.

The store is also under new ownership, with Amanda LeFebre and Randy Blanchette having taken over on Nov. 1. The New Hampshire natives say The Trading Post was a perfect fit for them.

"I've always been a big shopaholic," said LeFebre. "I'm always looking for deals, going to thrift shops, things like that."

"I really grew up with it," said Blanchette. "My parents were antique dealers. We were always going to thrift shops and yard sales."

The Trading Post carries a number of antiques, something that might come as a surprise to those who haven't visited the store. Add in sporting goods, collectibles, electronics, jewelry, clothing, DVDs, etc. and you get an amazing variety of gift choices.

According to LeFebre, about half the stock is on consignment.

"We make sure every item is in good condition," she said. "We want to make sure the quality of the stock is consistent."

One interesting feature at the store is the "Wish List." If a customer doesn’t see something in stock, they can add it to a "Wish List." If LeFebre and Blanchette can find it elsewhere or if someone brings in a similar item to place on consignment, the customer will be contacted and given a chance to buy it.

A lot of the items on the "Wish List" are larger items that can't fit in the main area of the store.

The Trading Post is open Tuesday thru Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed Monday.