who we are
buffalo lore
The first Buffalo Exchange opened in 1974 in Tucson, Arizona by Kerstin and Spencer Block. To our knowledge, this was the very first store that bought, sold, traded and took clothing items and accessories on consignment. Kerstin, being Swedish, thought the word 'Buffalo' was very American. And since the store was going to be an 'Exchange,' the store's name was born. The store was in a 450 square foot space that had been an old union office on a side street near the University of Arizona. Kerstin's love of fashion and thrill in finding a bargain combined to create the company that now has 45 stores and 3 franchises in 17 states, with $81.6 million a year in revenue (as of Dec 2012). Buffalo Exchange is an independent and privately held company and the founders manage the day-to-day business. Kerstin and her daughter Rebecca still own and run Buffalo Exchange out of Tucson. Read more about Kerstin Block in her bio.
purpose
It is the purpose of Buffalo Exchange to lead the resale fashion industry, provide a livelihood for its employees, a fair return to its owners and achieve sustainable profitability by:
- Being the most beneficial place for its customers to buy, sell and trade new and recycled clothing
- Having a rewarding workplace
- Acting with integrity
- Being self-righting
- Functioning in a socially responsible manner
- Promoting fun and enjoyment
