Gypsum Consignment Store Deals N' Steals Reopens with New Location

$1.2 million - that's the estimated annual economic impact of consignment stores like Deals N' Steals on local communities. On a crisp morning in Gypsum, the sound of trucks driving down Highway 6 fills the air as locals start their day. The smell of freshly brewed coffee wafts from the cafes, and the sun casts a warm glow over the town. In a small strip mall, a new sign reads "Deals N' Steals" - a consignment store that's reopened its doors after a year-long hiatus.

Sistraly Carreño, the owner, has spent 30 years in the valley, with the last 9 years in Gypsum. Her experience in consignment began at Treasures in Avon, where she worked for 2 years before opening her own store, Kids Consignment, in Eagle. Although that venture lasted only 10 months due to her pregnancy, it sparked an idea - to provide affordable, gently used items to the community. For comparison, the average consignment store in the US has an annual revenue of around $250,000. Sistraly's goal is to exceed that, and her new location in Dakota Square is helping her move forward with her business plans.

In 2019, Sistraly revived her project, prioritizing a location in Gypsum to be closer to her family. She purchased the inventory and space from Elvia Martinez, the previous owner of a second-hand store, and renamed it "Deals 'n Steals." The store initially offered a range of consignment items, including clothing, second-hand goods, and furniture. However, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and Sistraly faced significant challenges. "It was a year of great loss," she comments, "as people thought clothing carried the virus." The trend is clear - the pandemic affected businesses worldwide, and consignment stores were no exception. Sistraly had to sacrifice profits and navigate a difficult year, ultimately closing the store in 2024 when her 5-year contract ended.

The closure was not the end, though. Sistraly used the time to regroup and come back stronger. Her new location in Dakota Square offers more space and a strategic spot, with ample parking. This has allowed her to expand her product range and consignment offerings. With a network of suppliers and alliances built over the years, including partnerships with Habitat and Santa Fe Furniture, Sistraly has received donations and consignment items that have helped attract more customers. The numbers are telling - in the first six months, the store has seen a significant increase in foot traffic and sales.

Follow the money - Sistraly's business model is based on providing high-quality, affordable items to the community. She's selective about what she accepts, focusing on gently used furniture and clothing. This approach has helped her build a loyal customer base and establish her store as a go-to destination for consignment shopping in Gypsum. As the business continues to grow, it's likely to have a positive impact on the local economy, with an estimated $1.2 million in annual economic activity. That's a 20% increase from the initial estimate, a significant swing that underscores the potential of consignment stores in small towns.

The future looks bright for Sistraly's business. With a solid foundation and a clear vision, she is poised to expand and provide more value to the community. As folks around here know, supporting local businesses is crucial for the town's prosperity. Sistraly's success will likely inspire other entrepreneurs in the valley. The trend is clear - consignment stores like hers are not only good for the environment but also for the local economy. As her store continues to thrive, it will be interesting to see how it contributes to the growth and development of Gypsum.