After four years of blending unique design with charitable fundraising, online site ‘We Are Not A Shop’ will officially close its virtual doors on 17th December.

Founded by Stephanie Laing, supported by the late Martin Laing, the online store gained popoularity for its carefully curated selection of unusual new and antique homeware items, artworks, gifts and jewellery, with many pieces also promoting and preserving the local heritage.

All funds raised by the platform went to two local charities: Save the Valletta Skyline Appeal and St John Ambulance and Rescue.

Peninent Madonna in elaborate gold frame / We Are Not A Shop 

To mark the occasion, We Are Not A Shop will host two open house events on Friday 15th and Saturday 16th November.

During the events, shoppers can enjoy browsing one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts such as furniture, lamps, jewellery and Christmas decorations, as well as stocking fillers for all ages, prior to purchasing online.

The events promise to be a great opportunity for Christmas shopping, with a special 25 per cent discount on all purchases over €100.

Friday’s open house will be open between 10am to 6pm while Saturday’s open house will be available from 10am to 2pm.

“We are immensely grateful to everyone who has supported We Are Not A Shop over the years,” Stephanie Laing said.

She recalled that this project began as an experiment, and they never imagined how many people would be touched by it or how much good it could do.

“Thanks to our customers, whom we will miss dearly, we’ve raised hundreds of thousands of euros for charity,” she continued.

Antique French clear glass scent bottle, circa 1880 / We Are Not A Shop

Launched just before the pandemic in 2020, the site operated under a simple yet impactful model – every cent donated for the myriad items on offer went directly to charity, with absolutely no operational costs deducted.

We Are Not A Shop was a primary contributor to the Save the Valletta Skyline Appeal, helping the appeal to successfully raise the €9 million needed to complete the restoration of St Paul’s Anglican Pro-Cathedral in Valletta.

The site also supports St John Ambulance and Rescue, a volunteer organisation providing first aid and rescue services across the island. To date, We Are Not a Shop has raised almost €200,000 for these hugely worthy causes.

Shoppers can continue to purchase items online until 17th December, with offerings including Christmas gifts, faux flowers and plants, atwork, antique collectibles, books and homeware.

The final stretch of We Are Not A Shop’s journey will feature more opportunities for late-night shopping on 28th November and 7th December.