The fair trade gift shop Ten Thousand Villages is closing in Media Borough, one of 13 stores, to focus more on online sales and to channel its resources toward its work with underserved communities.
The stores will close by the end of March, writes Michael Tanenbaum for Philly Voice.
The nonprofit chain, headquartered in Lancaster County, has about 45 company-owned stores and other locations operating under the brand’s license.
Artisan wares, including home decor and personal accessories, are sold.
The Media store at 101 State Road, and a Center City store have been open at least 18 years. A store at Kitchen Kettle Village in Intercourse, Lancaster County, is also closing.
Other stores in Glen Mills and Bryn Mawr have closed in recent years.
Ten Thousand Villages is one of the world’s oldest and largest fair trade organizations.
It was founded by Mennonite missionary Edna Ruth Byler during a 1946 trip to Puerto Rico.
She wanted to help local artisans market their crafts and form wider networks for their goods to be sold internationally at fair prices as a way to stave off poverty. Partnering artisans would make a sustainable living and use recycled materials in the process.
Find out more about Ten Thousand Villages in Philly Voice.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on DELCO Today in January 2025.
