The business is permanently closed.
“A customer commented recently that I am not a ‘natural shopkeeper’, then added ‘and please don’t change.’ Reflecting on his comment, I never envisaged myself running a shop, I never even played shops as a child!” says Sarah Carmody, Director of Retro Treasure on North Lane.
“From careers in insurance, journalism and politics, running a shop was not a natural progression but it is one that I love. I have met so many local Headingley residents who return, often weekly, for a chat or mooch around. I feel privileged to get to know them, their stories about the local area, their families and their lives.
“I was on maternity leave and was at home with a small baby and mentally needed something else to do. I’ve always had a passion for historic items and the stories behind them so I started buying house clearance job-lots on Ebay. The thrill of looking through these items, investigating them and repairing them led me to thinking about a change of direction in my own life.
“So I investigated the legalities, obtained the necessary licences, insurance, staff and vehicles and set up West Yorkshire HouseClearance. Also, around that time, my grandmother died which brought home to me just how difficult it is for families to dispose of things that belonged to someone they loved. As the manager of a house clearance company, I demand that my team treat people’s belongs with respect, care and consideration. Even if it has to be taken to the recycling centre it is still something that may have been a treasured possession such as a handmade birthday card to a grandmother or letters received from loved ones.
“My business became successful which then led to me opening Retro Treasure in Headingley eighteen months later. The shop contains a mixture of low-priced used furniture, antiques, collectables and items that I buy either from auctions or retro wholesalers. Having a large variety and constantly rotating stock is important as there’s always something new to see.
“I like that people come to the shop and feel as though they’ve had an enjoyable experience and that it’s a welcoming, safe space, and no, I’m certainly not a natural shopkeeper. I’m more interested in the people than what they buy.
“We are also a drop-off point for the local charity Homeless Hampers, so anyone can bring clothes, food, sleeping bags etc and the charity will collect them.
“The rent is fairly hefty but I’ve signed a three year lease. If it doesn’t dramatically increase after that period then hopefully I’ll be there for a considerable amount of time and the shop will be recognised as a real community hub.”
Sarah Carmody, Director
Retro Treasure Ltd, access in Taps car park, North Lane
https://www.retrotreasure.co.uk/
