In the heart of Solihull, a vibrant shop run by a dedicated mum is transforming the way local families shop for their children, championing sustainability and community spirit.
The Community Champion Behind the Mission
Mum-of-two Jenny Charman is the driving force behind Kids2Kids Preloved, a beloved store described by its loyal customers as a vital community hub. With her children Ollie and Charlie, aged four and five, Jenny is on a determined mission to 'normalise pre-loved shopping' for parents across the region.
Her vision is simple: to create a high-street experience where buying second-hand is as easy and acceptable as purchasing new. Frustrated by her own experiences with online marketplaces, where postage costs mounted and item conditions were sometimes misrepresented, Jenny saw a gap for a trustworthy, physical destination.
What Makes This Shop a Local Treasure?
The shop itself is a bright, welcoming space with eye-catching, hand-painted windows. Inside, parents can find a meticulously curated selection of children's clothes up to age 10, shoes, fancy dress costumes, board games, and books, most priced at just a couple of pounds or less.
Every single item undergoes a rigorous process before hitting the shelves: each is washed, ironed, and checked for any flaws. This attention to detail ensures quality and builds trust with customers. The store also features a cosy book corner and offers baby furniture and equipment via its website, all with a single, combined delivery charge for online orders.
Overwhelming Support from Birmingham Parents
When featured on the popular Brummie Mummies Facebook page, the shop was flooded with praise from grateful parents. One customer hailed Jenny as 'a local legend, a community champion', a sentiment echoed by many.
'Love Kids2Kids! I have brought so many lovely clothes and toys from there. Highly recommend,' wrote one mum. Another discovered the shop through the social media buzz, stating: 'I came in for the first time this week. Great shop and got an adorable coat for my little one for a bargain.'
The store has also become a key destination for families looking to pass on items responsibly after events like Christmas, with one parent noting it was 'a nice place to donate kids clothes and toys.'
A Vision for a Nationwide Preloved Revolution
Jenny's ambition extends far beyond Solihull. 'My dream is for there to be Kids2Kids shops in different towns throughout the country,' she revealed. By proving the model works—offering significant savings compared to buying new and providing a convenient, quality-assured service—she hopes to lead a shift in shopping habits.
In an era of rising living costs, her work provides a crucial service, helping families stretch their budgets without compromising on quality. Jenny Charman's Kids2Kids Preloved stands as a testament to how local enterprise, environmental consciousness, and community support can create a powerful force for good on the high street.
