New retro-themed shop promises vintage charm and sustainable shopping in Thatcham town centre

mirek.gosney@newburynews.co.uk

Published: 05:45, 10 July 2025

A new retro-themed shop promises to bring a dose of vintage charm to Thatcham town centre.

The Retrograde opened its doors on Chapel Street to a lively crowd of shoppers and dignitaries on Tuesday (July 8).

Mayor Petra Pemberton with councillor Ben Schiffer-Harte at The Retrograde

Mayor of Thatcham Petra Pemberton was joined by councillor Ben Schiffer-Harte and Helen Thompson from the Wheelchair Rugby Team Stoke Mandeville Maulers in cutting the ribbon.

But more than just a treasure trove of pre-owned items, The Retrograde hopes to encourage sustainable shopping by helping to divert the volume of products ending up on landfill.

Mayor Petra Pemberton officially opening The Retrograde, alongside guest Helen Thompson of the Stoke Mandeville Maulers Wheelchair Rugby Team and founder Aaron White

Shoppers can donate items with the confidence that their contributions will directly benefit deserving causes, including Burghfield Common company No Knockout CIC, which provides children facing financial difficulties with crucial access to sports and arts programmes.

Mayor Petra Pemberton being shown around The Retrograde by founder Aaron White

Founder Aaron White shared his excitement: “It was fantastic to see so many people get a chance to come into store on day one and get a sense of the vibe of the store and find out what we are bringing to the vintage thrift retail market.

“I'm really pleased that we can offer another shop, with an edge, a little difference that the Thatcham public can enjoy."

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