HUTCHINSON, Kan. – After a decade of serving the Buhler community, Grand Staff Thrift Boutique is thrilled to announce its relocation to downtown Hutchinson. The new store, located at 408 N. Main, is set to open just in time for the annual Christmas Open House, inviting both loyal customers and newcomers to explore its expanded space and unique offerings.
The move marks the realization of a long-held dream for the boutique. “After 10 years in Buhler, our dream of moving to downtown Hutchinson is finally a reality,” stated Becky and Tracy of Grand Staff. The team took possession of the new building on October 10th and has been working diligently on renovations, including exposing charming tin ceiling tiles and brick walls, to create a welcoming atmosphere.
The primary reason for the move was a need for more space and increased profitability to support their mission. “We outgrew our space over four years ago,” they explained. In Buhler, the store operated with 7500 sq ft, including workspaces, often struggling with limited room, especially for their most popular item: clothing. The new Hutchinson location boasts double the square footage, providing ample room for inventory, off-season storage, and future processing expansion.
Furthermore, the relocation aims to significantly boost the boutique’s income, crucial for their ongoing commitment to building and supporting an elementary school in eSwatini, Africa, for children who cannot afford tuition. With over three-quarters of their customers already residing in Hutchinson, the move is expected to increase shopping frequency as customers no longer need to make a special trip. The boutique also hopes to retain its loyal customers from Buhler, Wichita, Sterling, McPherson, Inman, and even Colorado.
Looking ahead, Grand Staff Thrift Boutique has an exciting future venture planned: an on-site Christian coffee shop called “Grounds for Grace.” While not opening immediately, plans are in motion to build the necessary kitchen and ADA-compliant bathrooms. This coffee shop aims to be more than just a business; it seeks to foster deep relationships with customers, offering a space of “loving acceptance” and spiritual connection. “We will be unashamedly a Christian coffee shop, one where Jesus Himself will be welcome to love on saints and sinners,” they affirmed.
The move also brings a shift in volunteer dynamics. While some long-time volunteers from Buhler, Inman, and McPherson may find the commute too far, the boutique is optimistic about attracting new volunteers from Hutchinson, many of whom have already expressed interest. Trainings will be held to welcome and integrate new team members.
Grand Staff Thrift Boutique expresses gratitude for their ten years in Buhler and their commitment to being good stewards of funds. The decision to purchase their new building in Hutchinson reflects a desire for ownership and long-term stability, with plans to own the building outright in ten years, or sooner.
The team is working tirelessly to prepare for their grand opening, praising God for the opportunities ahead. “This space and this ministry belong to Him,” they shared, expressing their hope that through their work, “He receive glory as we love on people here and provide for our precious Swazi children.”
Below is the building upon possession:
Beginning Renovations:
