NARTS: About Us
ABOUT US
Rooted In History. Renewed With Purpose As We Step Into The Year 2026.
Our Beginning
NARTS began in 1984 when two Chicago shop owners, Renee River and Trudy Miller, met to discuss the possibility of forming an association for resale and thrift stores. Their conversation led to the first official meeting later that year and the creation of a Board of Directors. What started with a simple shared vision soon grew into a national community united by a belief in the power of resale.
A New Era of Leadership
NARTS is entering a new chapter in 2026 under the direction of Executive Director, Angie Houloose, and Association Manager, April Clark. Together they bring experience in store ownership, operations, consulting, training, community building, and organizational leadership. This new season reflects a renewed commitment to clarity, relevance, education, connection, and purpose for every member.
An Association That Grows With the Industry
As resale has expanded across the country, NARTS has grown alongside it. Our members have opened stores, added locations, explored specialty categories, and helped shape resale into a respected part of the retail landscape. Today we continue that work by strengthening education, expanding training, modernizing communication, and building more intentional opportunities for connection.
Who We Serve
✓NARTS serves the full spectrum of the resale community:
✓Store owners, managers and employees
✓Resale, consignment and thrift store
✓For Profit and Not For Profit stores
✓Multi-location businesses
✓Trusted partners and vendors who provide support, services, technology, supplies and more
A Community That Shares and Supports
Store owners often carry the weight of their work alone. NARTS provides a place to talk, learn, ask, share, and feel supported by people who understand the daily realities of resale. Connection, conversation, and shared wisdom remain at the heart of this association.
Education That Moves Stores Forward
Education and training are central to this new phase of NARTS. Members need guidance they can use today, not someday. Our focus is on learning that is practical, relevant, and grounded in real store experience. This includes operations, marketing, leadership development, safety, customer experience, and team training.
Looking Ahead
The spirit that launched NARTS in 1984 remains strong today. As we enter 2026 and beyond, our purpose is clear: To support, educate, and empower the people who make resale thrive and to bring the industry together in a community where no one has to run their store alone.
MEMBERS FIRST PHILOSOPHY
Members First is more than a phrase. It is the way NARTS chooses to lead, serve, and make decisions. At the center of this philosophy is a simple question: Will this make a NARTS member feel braver, more hopeful, and more capable, while sparking belief, clarity, or momentum?
Members First means we begin with the people who run the stores. Their needs, their realities, and their growth shape what we create.
✓ Every decision starts with the member in mind
✓ Every interaction lifts confidence rather than pressure
✓ Every tool is created for action today, not someday
✓ Every leader models care, clarity, and courage
As we step into 2026, Members First becomes the measure for everything we build. Every member deserves to feel seen, understood, and heard. That promise guides our path forward.