In spring 2025, Rachael Bankey, owner of Raspberry Beret, approached me, her employee, about buying her Maynard store. I’d never owned a business, but it was deeply important to both of us that high-quality secondhand remain a part of the Maynard community. I got to work, and opened Secondhand News in August.

The contemporary fashion industry is, unfortunately, disastrous to the environment and exploitative of the workforce. The numbers are staggering: 100 billion pieces of new clothing are produced every year, and the average American throws away 81 pounds of clothes per year. Shopping secondhand is an effective alternative to buying new, allows the consumer to vote with their dollar, and creates a circular economy.

It’s an honor to be a part of the Maynard business landscape. I’m always happy to answer questions, refer out to other businesses, and of course, to see what you buy!

With gratitude,
Jess Thompson, Owner