Beloved retailer Rise Consignment has announced they will be closing for good at the end of July due to the high costs of operating a business in downtown Victoria.
Rylie Tarry, owner of Rise Consignment announced the closure via social media, stating that after four years of operating, she is being forced to throw in the towel due to financial strain in the current economic landscape.
“This might be shocking news and it’s definitely disappointing, but it’s time to go,” said Tarry in her closure post.
“This difficult decision was not made lightly, and I did my best to fight this outcome as hard as possible.”
She noted that through the four years of operations, Rise has worked with over 1,000 consignors and has sold over 100,000 items, potentially saving them from the landfill.
“That’s no small feat and while I’m proud of what Rise has done for our community, slow sales, rising costs and unexpected expenses have left us with no other choice but to close up shop for good,” she added.
“I also need to take some time to figure out who I am without Rise.”
Tarry expressed gratitude for all who have supported Rise Consignment through the years, whether they were a customer or a consignor.
She says that she is immensely proud of being able to provide a place that isn’t just a retail space, but a hub of like-minded community.
“Rise wasn’t just a place to shop, it was a space for people to feel seen, to express themselves, and to find something they didn’t even know they needed,” said Tarry.
“It worked because of people like you who believe in sustainable fashion and community care!”
Tarry concluded Rise’s post by implying Victorians to support small businesses now more than ever, so that the city doesn’t lose any more of its charm that the small business community offers.
In Rise’s Instagram post, countless small businesses, store patrons and community leaders commented, saying that the store will be missed and thanking them for what they have done for Victoria.
“I’m so sorry to hear that Rise is closing,” commented Bailey Parker of the Virgin Radio morning show.
“I always enjoyed our chats while shopping and will miss popping in every so often. You worked so hard Rylie and I know this can’t have been an easy decision to make. I hope you have time to grieve the end of this chapter. Looking forward to seeing what you do next.”
Their last day of business will be Sunday, July 27th. Leading up to the store closure, she says the entire store will be 25% to 75% off.
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