Renaissance opens a new thrift store in the heart of Laurier Québec

03.18.2026 | News, Stores

Second-hand takes its place among major fashion brands

March 27 will mark an important milestone for Renaissance: we will open a new thrift store in the heart of Laurier Québec, one of the largest shopping centers in Quebec. For our organization, this will be our first presence alongside major national and international brands—a concrete way to confirm that second-hand fashion is now fully taking its place among mainstream fashion offerings.

With this 26th thrift store, we continue expanding in the Quebec City region, following our recent openings in Lévis, Charlesbourg, and Les Halles Fleur de Lys. Our goal remains the same: to make responsible consumption accessible to citizens where they already shop.

“Setting up in the heart of Laurier Québec is a strong signal. It confirms that second-hand has secured its place in Quebecers’ shopping habits. It is also a concrete way to democratize responsible consumption and make it complementary to other retail offerings. We are proud to demonstrate that a Quebec social economy non-profit can compete at the highest level,” says Éric St-Arnaud, Executive Director of Renaissance.

The new thrift store will be located in the former La Baie space, covering 18,000 square feet. By investing in this iconic location, we are helping to normalize and promote second-hand as a modern, accessible, and fully embraced option. This store will offer exclusively clothing for women, men, and children, as well as home accessories.

A new way of consuming, now integrated into the shopping mall

Each year, Laurier Québec welcomes more than 11 million visitors, making it Quebec City’s top tourist destination after Old Québec. Renaissance’s arrival in such a high-traffic location clearly reflects evolving consumer habits and the growing interest in more responsible ways to shop.

“We are pleased to welcome Renaissance among the retailers at Laurier Québec. This addition offers our visitors a different shopping option rooted in sustainability and solidarity, while enriching the overall experience at our center,” says Donald Larose, Vice President of Retail, Quebec Region at JLL, manager of Laurier Québec.

Behind every purchase, a social impact

Beyond affordable offerings, every purchase at Renaissance supports a very tangible social mission. The revenue generated helps fund our socio-professional integration programs, which support individuals who are far from the job market in finding employment and achieving independence.

“Behind every garment is a story: that of an item finding a second life, but also that of a person regaining their place in the workforce. Shopping at Renaissance means making a choice that is both socially and environmentally responsible,” adds Éric St-Arnaud.

A response to economic and environmental challenges

In a context marked by pressure on purchasing power and growing environmental concerns, second-hand is increasingly becoming a preferred alternative. By extending the life cycle of goods and diverting them from landfills, Renaissance directly contributes to material reuse and the transition toward a more circular economy—while remaining affordable.

Staying true to our collaborative approach, we are developing this project in synergy with well-established regional partners, including Réno-Jouet and Recyclage Vanier. By working alongside community organizations recognized for their social and environmental commitment, we strengthen our collective impact and create concrete pathways toward integration and reuse.