The Difference Between Op Shops, Thrift Stores, and Consignment Stores (2026)
Op shops, thrift stores, and consignment stores all sell second-hand goods, but they are not the same. The main differences are who runs them, where the stock comes from, and what happens to the money. This guide spells out those differences so you know what to expect when you shop.
In Australia, “op shop” usually means a charity-run store that sells donated items. “Thrift store” in the US can mean the same, or a for-profit second-hand shop. “Consignment store” is a different model: the owner of the item gets a share of the sale. Below we break each type down.
Op shop (Australia)
An op shop is run by a charity. Stock comes from donations, where the public gives items for free. The shop sorts, prices, and sells them. The money goes to the charity’s programs. Shoppers do not get a cut of the sale; the donor does not either. In Australia, chains like Vinnies, Salvos, and Red Cross run op shops. For more, see what is an op shop and where the money from op shops goes.
Thrift store (US and sometimes Australia)
In America, “thrift store” is the usual word for what Australians call an op shop when the store is run by a charity (e.g. Goodwill, Salvation Army). So in that case, thrift store and op shop are the same idea, just different regional names.
Sometimes “thrift store” is also used for for-profit second-hand shops. Those shops buy stock to resell and keep the profit. They are not charities. So “thrift store” can be charity or for-profit depending on context. In Australia, “op shop” almost always means charity.
Consignment store
A consignment store sells items on behalf of the owner. You bring in your clothes or furniture; the store displays and sells them. When an item sells, the store keeps a percentage and pays you the rest. So the stock is not donated; it is consigned. The store is usually for-profit. Consignment is common for higher-end or designer pieces. It is different from an op shop, where you donate and do not get paid. For how op shops price items, including designer, see how op shops price designer items.
Quick comparison
| Store type | Who runs it | Stock source | Where money goes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Op shop | A charity | Free public donations | All sale money funds the charity |
| Thrift store (charity) | A charity (US name for an op shop) | Free public donations | All sale money funds the charity |
| Thrift store (for-profit) | A business | Stock bought in to resell | Profit stays with the business |
| Consignment store | A business | Items left by their owners | Store and owner split the sale price |
Knowing which type of store you are in explains pricing and profit destination. Australian term: what op shops are called in Australia.
Choosing the right store type in Australia
Need a $5 work shirt? Start at Vinnies or Salvos in an outer suburb. Hunting a $200 designer bag at below retail? Try Sacred Heart Mission online or a consignment store in Paddington. Savers megastores sit between charity and commercial: large volume, organised aisles, prices often above warehouse Salvos but below vintage boutiques.
Consignment on Chapel Street or James Street charges more because the owner sets a minimum and the shop takes commission. Op shops price to clear rack space and fund programs. Know which model you are in before you compare tags.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an op shop the same as a thrift store?
In Australia, op shop usually means charity-run. Thrift store can mean charity or for-profit depending on context.
Why are consignment stores more expensive than op shops?
Owners set minimum prices and the store takes a commission. Op shops price to sell donated stock and fund programs.
Can a store be both op shop and consignment?
Rarely under one roof. Some streets mix both store types side by side.
Where do my dollars go at each type?
Op shop: charity programs. Thrift store: business owners (unless charity-run). Consignment: original owner plus shop.
