BLUE LIGHTS TO BRIGHT IDEAS. EX-POLICE OFFICER TURNED LOCAL BUSINESSMAN LAUNCHES VINTAGE BRAND WITH A CAUSE.
Entrepreneur Mike Rees has launched a new venture: Reesycle Revival. It combines a passion for business and sustainability with a commitment to supporting people in need.
His recycled furniture and vintage wares business will officially open its warehouse showroom at Unit 3, Little Smithcott Farm, Brinkworth Road, Dauntsey, for browsing on Sunday March 1 from 10am to 2pm. And will continue to welcome customers every Sunday thereafter.
What’s on offer
Reesycle Revival offers:
- vintage furniture
- reclaimed household itemsÂ
- and a range of vintage pieces for the home from ceramics, to toys, vinyl records to CDs.Â
The initiative reflects a growing demand for sustainable shopping options.
‘The idea has been evolving for some time,’ Mike said. ‘I wanted to create a sustainable business with a social conscience. One where we buy and sell goods. And alongside that we can offer support to individuals or families who are in dire need in our community. By selling furniture and vintage wares we can fund support for those in need who may only be able to pay a little or, on occasion, nothing at all. We also want to ensure that as little as possible goes to landfill.’
Mike said his inspiration for the new business came from what he’s seen within the community over many years. He retired as a Detective Inspector in 2014. He then set up his extreme cleaning business, Forensiclean. It helps organisations and individuals with hazardous, deep cleans – this includes supporting loved ones who wish to help family members with issues around hoarding.
‘Throughout my career I’ve seen first-hand how soon circumstances can change for families,’ he said. ‘With our cleaning business we saw how some people can find life a struggle. We also saw how much waste can material goods can generate. Waste that others can use and have a new life. For the last 12 years, we’ve voluntarily taken furniture from beds to tables, chairs and wardrobes to families in need or in crisis, sometimes due to serious domestic abuse.
A business with a social conscience
‘The time has come to turn that into a business with a strong social conscience. One where we can employ a small team, fetch and carry items, conduct house clearances and the sort out goods for sale or for gifting to those in need. This is not just about giving furniture a second chance. It’s also about giving people a second chance. If we can provide basic items at very low cost or even free to those in genuine need, then we’re making a real difference.’
The design of the warehouse showroom makes for a relaxed browsing space. One where customers can explore a changing collection of tables, chairs, storage units, soft furnishings and decorative vintage finds.Â
Alongside retail sales, the business will set aside essential items of furniture for families referred through local support networks such as the NHS and Social Services.
Mike believes the model strikes a balance between commercial sustainability and community responsibility.
‘I want this to be more than a mere shop,’ he said. ‘We all have a responsibility to look out for each other and to think about waste. By restoring and rehoming furniture, we are reducing landfill while also helping people create safe, comfortable homes. That feels like the right way to do business.’
Find out more about Reescycle Revival at:Â www.reesycle.com
