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—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

Op shop: charity-run, donated stock, all sale money to the charity. Thrift store (charity sense): same as op shop, US name. Thrift store (for-profit sense): shop buys and resells; profit stays with the business. Consignment store: owner leaves items to be sold; store and owner share the sale price. Knowing which type you are in helps you understand the pricing and what to expect from the range of stock.