Best Thrift Store in Poway: St. Bartholomew Thrift Store

What started as a rummage sale became a lasting business.

—the winner of the Poway Premium Partners' poll for Best Thrift Store in Poway—opened in 1966 after a group of women from the Episcopal church held a rummage sale. The store, which is run by more than 100 volunteers, has operated from its current location since 1982.

“Since arriving here, we have seen our reputation grow, our donations increase and our business thrive,” said chairman of the Thrift Shop's board of directors Hal Doughty. “Our current location serves people from many parts of the community, and from a business point of view Poway Road is one of the main economic pathways between San Diego, Ramona and beyond.”

Angus, who said the thrift shop had to revise its business plan to ensure success during the recession, offered some tips for those in the industry.

“Have a good business plan, a good organization and support staff, plenty of patience, and lots of cash in the bank,” she said.