Talize is a bit of a mixed bag for Canadian thrifters. On one hand, it offers a wide selection and convenient hours, making it a go-to for many. However, it’s not a non-profit, and the prices can be a biiiiit high (ok, ridiculously high) for thrifting. At least Talize manages to keep items out of landfills and supports local charities? It’s all about finding balance—knowing what to expect and making smart choices when you shop. Plus, those change rooms are a definite bonus!
Related: Thrifting at Value Village: The Good, The Bad, and The Overpriced
Who owns Talize?
- Talize is Canadian owned and operated.
- It is owned by David and Vitale Tarski. They are two brothers, originally from Russia.
- According to LinkedIn, Vitale is the CEO of Talize and David is the President.
- At the time of writing, there are 16 Talize locations across Canada, primarily in Ontario and BC.
Is Talize a non-profit?
No, Talize is not a non-profit. Similar to Value Village, they purchase donated goods from community partners but operate as a for-profit organization.
How much does Talize donate to charity?
Nothing. Instead, Talize helps manage the operational costs of collecting and distributing donations for charity partners. They also purchase donations to support funding. The charity that Talize is currently working with is Cornerstone to Recovery.
Hot take: Value Village doesn’t need to donate to charity. Thrift stores in general don’t need to donate to charity. But since they are a for-profit retailer then their policies and operations should be a bit less exploitative. They should take a closer look at the goods they are selling to ensure the prices matches the quality. They should have a more reasonable return policy. They should have freaking fitting rooms!
What does Talize do with unsold items?
Talize works with various recycling companies to ensure that items are reused or resold whenever possible. They claim to do everything they can to keep items out of landfills.
Does Talize wash clothes before selling them?
No, Talize does not wash clothes before selling them.
Talize donations
Each Talize location also operates as a donation center. They collect clothing, accessories, shoes, linens, books, toys and housewares. They do not accept mattresses, miniblinds or lawn mowers. For full list, see their website.
When you donate to Talize you receive a $5 off coupon to spend in-store on purchases of $25+. Honestly, not as good as Value Village but at least its something.
Tip: Keep a few small bags of donateables handy so if there are no other relevant promos running you can get a $5 off coupon before heading in to shop.
Talize change rooms
Talize has change rooms!!! Which honestly is the bare minimum for a for-profit retailer with a limited return policy. The bar is low but i’ll take it.
To their credit, the change rooms quite functional and well-managed.
Talize return policy
Talize offers store credit for returns within seven days of purchase if items have the original receipt and tags. Some items, like furniture and electronics, aren’t eligible. Store credit is a step better than the policy at Value Village because at least you don’t have to spend the credit on the same day of the return? But 7 days is a pretty tight window!
Talize discounts
Seniors and students get a 10% discount on regularly priced items.
Talize also offers daily manager’s specials that are different for each location. Usually it will be 50% off a specific category. They don’t post about these anywhere so you just have to go in to see what’s on sale.
They do occasionally have discounts across all stores so follow them on Instagram or Facebook or sign up for emails to learn more.
Benefits of shopping at Talize
- They have change rooms. Enough said.
- The clothing is well-organized by category, size and even colour
- The baby clothing is displayed on hangers and very reasonably priced
- The selection in general is huge, compared to smaller independent thrift stores
- They are open until 9pm, which is great for after hours thrifting (double check this is true for your local store)
In conclusion
Thrifting at Talize is better than not thrifting at all, especially compared to buying new from fast fashion companies. Even if Talize might seem a bit pricey, it’s usually still cheaper than buying new. If you spend time looking, you can find great hidden treasures. Plus, you’re giving items a second chance instead of letting them end up in landfills. While I’d prefer supporting smaller businesses, I can’t deny finding my favourite vintage silk button-down at Talize for under $10 was a win.
