A Glasgow-based charity, The Blankfaces, has opened a new pop-up store in the city center after being forced to close its West End location due to a significant rent increase. The charity, dedicated to ending homelessness, faced a challenging situation when the costs at its previous store more than tripled, leading founder Gerard McKenzie Govan to make the difficult decision to shut down the premises earlier this month. The closure of the West End store meant the end of not only a retail space but also a foodbank and a safe haven for vulnerable individuals in the community.
The Blankfaces, known for its fashion brand co-created with individuals who have experienced homelessness, has now found a new home at the Social Hub on Candleriggs in Glasgow. This move will allow the charity to continue its important work of supporting those facing homelessness while also providing a unique shopping experience for customers. The Social Hub, a multifunctional space that combines elements of a hotel, student accommodation, and coworking area, opened earlier this year in Glasgow. The venue aims to create a supportive community atmosphere, making it an ideal setting for The Blankfaces to continue their mission.
Challenges Faced by The Blankfaces
Founder Gerard McKenzie Govan expressed the difficulty of the decision to close the West End store, stating, “It was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make.” The rising costs coupled with decreasing foot traffic made it unsustainable to keep the store running. However, despite this setback, the charity remains determined to make a positive impact on the lives of those experiencing homelessness.
The Blankfaces, established in 2018, draws inspiration from Gerard’s own personal experiences of living in a homeless hotel managed by his mother in Ayr. Each designer who has faced homelessness will receive a portion of the sales revenue from the fashion brand, with the remaining proceeds going towards charitable projects that support homeless communities. The Blankfaces’ commitment to giving back to those in need is at the core of their mission, driving them to find innovative ways to continue their work despite challenges.
The Social Hub’s Support
Ben McLeod, the general manager at The Social Hub in Glasgow, emphasized the importance of supporting The Blankfaces during their transition. He stated, “When we heard about The Blankfaces having to close their West End store, we knew we had to step in.” The Social Hub seeks to align with brands that share their values of community impact, making The Blankfaces a natural fit for their space. By offering a platform for the charity to showcase their designs and continue their mission, The Social Hub is contributing to the broader goal of ending homelessness through collaborative efforts.
The new pop-up store at The Social Hub will feature a range of limited-edition designs, including trousers, ponchos, and shirts made from organic dry wax cotton and surplus materials sourced from Halley Stevenson in Dundee. These unique pieces, created with end-of-roll materials, highlight The Blankfaces’ commitment to sustainability and creativity in their fashion line. Customers visiting the pop-up will have the opportunity to support a meaningful cause while also acquiring one-of-a-kind garments that reflect the charity’s dedication to making a difference in the community.
Looking Towards the Future
As The Blankfaces settles into their new location at The Social Hub, they continue to explore opportunities for a permanent store while focusing on the present moment. Gerard expressed excitement about the possibilities ahead, stating, “We have exciting plans for this pop-up, and while we’re still looking for a permanent new store, you can find us here at The Social Hub.” The collaboration between The Blankfaces and The Social Hub signifies a shared commitment to creating real community impact and supporting those in need.
The launch of the pop-up store marks a new chapter for The Blankfaces as they navigate challenges and embrace opportunities for growth. By staying true to their values and vision, the charity remains steadfast in their mission to end homelessness through fashion and advocacy. As customers and supporters engage with The Blankfaces’ products and stories, they become part of a larger movement towards social change and empowerment for marginalized communities.
In conclusion, The Blankfaces’ journey from closure to a new beginning at The Social Hub reflects the resilience and determination of those dedicated to making a positive impact in the face of adversity. Through collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to community, The Blankfaces continue to inspire hope and change for those experiencing homelessness.