Many Hands Thrift Market to Close Des Moines Store

The Merle Hay Road retail location is scheduled to close permanently on November 8, 2026.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Isometric editorial illustration of a generic brick retail building and shipping crates, representing a strategic business closure. — Many Hands Thrift Market will close its Des Moines retail location on November 8, 2026, as the organization shifts its operational strategy. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Many Hands Thrift Market will shutter its Des Moines location at 4353 Merle Hay Road after Nov. 8, 2026. The organization plans to focus its operations elsewhere following this strategic closure.

Why it matters

This closure represents a strategic shift for the Pella-based international Christian ministry. The organization uses revenue from its retail chain to support various development projects in Haiti and on Abaco Island.

The storefront at 4353 Merle Hay Road operated for 5 years after opening in 2021. The chain will continue to operate locations in Clive, Grimes, West Des Moines, and Indianola.

The players

Many Hands Thrift Market

This is a Pella-based international Christian ministry that operates a retail thrift store chain to fund development projects.

The details

The retail location originally replaced a former Salvation Army site. Employees at the Merle Hay Road store have received offers to transition to other locations within the chain.

The store first opened its doors in 2021.
The organization issued a news release regarding the closure on October 26, 2026.
The store will permanently cease operations on November 8, 2026.

Market Landscape

The closure follows a pattern where retailers adjust their physical footprint within properties previously held by established nonprofits. This move refines the market presence of the ministry as it balances its charitable mission with retail sustainability.

Shoppers who frequented the Merle Hay Road location will need to visit other nearby stores in Clive, Grimes, West Des Moines, or Indianola. Staff members have been provided with job offers at these alternative locations to ensure continuity.

The takeaway

Customers planning to shop at the Merle Hay Road location should complete their visits before the final closing date in November. The organization maintains its commitment to supporting international development through its remaining regional storefronts.