St. Gallen is far from Zurich -- at least it feels that way. The city has its own rhythm, its own identity. And a surprisingly active scene when it comes to sharing and giving things away.
The University City
What many people forget: St. Gallen is home to one of Switzerland's most prestigious business universities. The HSG attracts thousands of students every year, and they all need furniture.
What's special: HSG students are often only here for a few semesters -- Bachelor's here, Master's somewhere else. This turnover creates a constant cycle of furniture being given away and sought after.
The area around the university, especially Rotmonten and parts of St. Georgen, is particularly interesting. Here you'll regularly find desks, bookshelves, sofas -- the typical student assortment.
But be aware: At the start of semester in September, the competition is fierce. Everyone's looking at the same time. February, when some people graduate, is a better time to find things.
Beyond the University
St. Gallen is more than just students. The city has a long history as a textile centre, and that past still shapes things today.
In the former working-class neighbourhoods like Lachen or Bruggen, families have lived for generations. When someone passes away or moves into a care home, entire households are sometimes dissolved. These are often items from a different era -- solid wood furniture, vintage pieces that would pass as designer goods in Zurich.
The old town itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and correspondingly expensive. Few people live there, and those who do rarely give things away. Focus on the outer neighbourhoods.
Eastern Swiss Mentality
Eastern Swiss people are thrifty -- that's not an insult, it's a compliment. They throw away less, repair more, and when they do give something away, it's usually in good condition.
I've heard that the "free to take" culture is very strong in St. Gallen. People put things outside their door with a sign, and it's expected that others will take them. That's more normal here than in other cities.
What also stands out: Communication is more direct. When someone from St. Gallen says "Yes, you can have that", they mean it. Fewer pleasantries, more clarity.
The Local Channels
The Facebook groups in St. Gallen are smaller than in the big cities, but the community is tight-knit. "Gratis in St. Gallen" and similar groups work well.
tutti.ch is less common here than in the Swiss Mittelland. Eastern Swiss people tend to use local channels or Ricardo for sales. For free stuff, Facebook and direct neighbourhood networks remain the go-to.
A special feature: Local church communities sometimes hold swap events or help with household clearances. In a city like St. Gallen, where the church still plays a social role, this can be an unexpected channel.
Getting Around the Hilly City
St. Gallen is built on a hillside, and you feel it. Not every route is easy to cycle. The city bus network is well developed, but obviously not an option for furniture transport.
Mobility car-sharing is available, but with fewer locations than in Zurich. Plan accordingly. Sometimes it's worth coordinating several pickups and getting them all done in one day.
Don't Forget the Surrounding Area
Eastern Switzerland is more than St. Gallen. Herisau, Gossau, Wil -- these towns are close and have their own offerings. If you're flexible and have a car, expand your radius. The competition there is even lower.
Herisau in Appenzell is particularly interesting. There's an alternative scene there that grew out of the town's psychiatric history. Swapping and sharing has a long tradition.
Conclusion
St. Gallen isn't a goldmine for free-stuff seekers, but if you live here, you'll regularly find good things. The university provides turnover, the Eastern Swiss mentality provides quality.
We're working on making PIKITUP better known in Eastern Switzerland too. The more people take part, the better it works. Have a look and help us build the community.
Do you know St. Gallen better? I'd love to hear your input -- hello@pikitup.ch