The Haven Opened Second Thrift Store in San Luis Obispo

The resale retailer has launched a new location on Higuera Street to reach more students.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Philanthropy

A rack of vintage clothing in a bright, sunlit retail shop, capturing a welcoming shopping environment.
The Haven has expanded its San Luis Obispo presence by opening a second resale store on Higuera Street to serve local students. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Haven has opened its second thrift store location at 532 Higuera St. in San Luis Obispo. The shop will donate a portion of its proceeds to the San Luis Obispo Classical Academy.

Why it matters

The store aims to broaden its market reach by connecting with local Cal Poly students. It occupies the former site of Fred and Betty's, which operated at the location for 13 years.

The store offers 25% of item value in cash or 35% in store credit for up to 35 items per visit. Remaining inventory from the previous occupant is currently sold at a 50% discount.

The players

The Haven

A resale retailer founded in November 2023 that operates locations in San Luis Obispo and Arroyo Grande.

San Luis Obispo Classical Academy

A local educational institution that will receive a portion of the store's proceeds.

The details

The owners have implemented a buying schedule on Saturdays and select Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Plans are also underway to introduce a dedicated vendor section for local makers.

Timeline

  1. The Haven was established in November 2023.

  2. The San Luis Obispo store opened on September 26, 2026.

  3. Buying days for clothing sellers occur every Saturday and on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.

Market Landscape

This move mirrors the trend of curated resale brands aggressively targeting university-aged demographics to capture market share. By relocating to a former retail storefront in a high-traffic area, the company is positioning itself to compete directly for the student population.

Shoppers can find remaining inventory from the previous occupant at a 50% discount. Residents looking to sell clothes should note the new buying schedule on Saturdays and specific Tuesdays.

The takeaway

The Haven is leveraging its established model to tap into the college student market. Sellers should check the specific buying calendar to ensure they can drop off their items during the designated hours.

Further reading

Learn more about local charitable business initiatives in San Luis Obispo Philanthropy.

Source note: This article includes information reported by Mustang News.

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Does the opening of more local thrift stores benefit your community's economy and affordability?