Swampscott's Big Blue Bargains Return Hits Bump In Road

SWAMPSCOTT, MA — The expected grand reopening of the Swampscott Big Blue Bargains community thrift store planned for next week is on hold as organizers seek an alternative storefront location.

The thrift shop that returns proceeds to Swampscott Public Schools was intended to open at its new Humphrey Street location in August but a proposed change in ownership in the building has those looking to reopen the shop looking for another space.

"We are sad to share that due to unforeseen circumstances, we are putting our grand reopening on hold," Big Blue Bargains posted on its Facebook page. "However, it's our hope that the closing of this door means the opening of a window.

"Which is why we are asking you for help! Do you have or know of a building that could be the future home for Big Blue Bargains? Comment here or send us a note!"

Those wishing to help the store identify a new spot can reach out to it here.

"We are eager to continue our mission of supporting the community and providing a service to help reduce and reuse," organizers said. "Thanks for sticking with us!"

Store managers said in a message to Patch this week that they had obtained the insurance for nonprofit retail use on July 15 and were planning to open on Aug. 1 with the help of "lots of donations" before learning the property could soon be sold.

"So sadly, we are back to square one and are not going to go through all the work opening to just have to move again," managers told Patch.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)