Customers may notice some changes at the Morris MCC Thrift Shop.

Upgrades were made to the front entrance, which provides more retail space. The doors are now electric and the bathroom is wheelchair accessible.

"We also spent quite a bit of money on buying new racks, clothing racks, and shelving for houseware," said Alvin Rempel, manager of the store.

The location of the items has also been changed.

Rempel added he didn't expect business to be good during their renovation period but said it actually increased during this time.

"We kept the store open," he explained. "We were quite surprised that the sales increased during our renovations and that trend has kept up, and so we're quite a way above last year's sales."

The business spent $73,000 on the upgrades, a loan to be paid over five years.

Rempel added they aren't finished quite yet, noting a 600 square foot expansion is still to come.

"We're looking at making more room for our receiving and sorting area in the back," he said.  

Building plans have been drawn up for this project, and Rempel is now waiting for contractors to respond. He added construction will begin as soon as weather conditions allow.

To fund the expansion the Morris MCC Thrift Store is planning to fundraise and sell their existing storage shed.

Business has been going well for the store, Rempel added. They are nine months into their current fiscal year and have projected to raise $140,000 for MCC. Funds are used to support the local and global relief, development and peace projects of Mennonite Central Committee.

Rempel added volunteer numbers are also good, with 1,400 hours of volunteer work in November and 1,300 hours in December.

The store will also be holding a sale on February 1, 2 and 3.