While numerous retail chains are closing stores or putting expansion plans on hold, second hand shop sales are booming. A Chicago Tribune article explained that the recession has turned fashionistas into frugalistas. Goodwill, whose sales of donated items help fund job training for homeless and disabled people, is working hard to capitalize on the trend toward frugality, with improved merchandising and a billboard ad campaign. The organization also has a special web site highlighting amazing deals people have found at its stores, offering fashion advice, promoting a frequent shopper program, and more. Did you know that Goodwill even runs an online auction site?
Surging sales in second hand stores has created a need for more donated items. To that end, Goodwill is running a promotion from March 2nd through 8th whereby shoppers bringing “gently used” pants to Ann Taylor LOFT will receive $15 off each purchase of full-priced pants. Salvation Army is running a similar promotion, in which shoppers bringing gently used clothing to Stein Mart between March 5th and 7th may receive up to four coupons good for 20 percent off any one item.
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