A thrift store's steep prices have sparked a debate over who is driving up the cost of secondhand shopping — and whom these stores are meant to serve.
Here's what to know
Content creator Hank Boling (@hustlinghankflips) posted an Instagram video and questioned retail-level pricing for donated goods during a filmed visit to an ARC Thrift & Donation store, according to The Union Star.
"Wait until you see some of these prices," Boling said, before taking viewers inside.
The video features a pair of Paradigm floor-standing speakers priced at $599.99, a cabinet for $499.99, and a pair of size 7.5 Christian Louboutin heels in black patent leather for $499.99 displayed in a locked glass case.
Boling said businesses such as ARC and Goodwill "are no longer thrift stores but have become retail stores."
More background
Some Instagram commenters argued that thrift stores now consult eBay and set higher prices because resellers publicize valuable finds online before selling them for a profit.
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Others said affordability for low-income shoppers should come first for stores stocked with donated goods. They dismissed the idea that resellers were to blame.
One user placed responsibility on "the people who work there put the prices on."
The Union Star noted that the video included no store employees and no response from either ARC or Goodwill.
What can be done?
"I only donate to Salvation Army, period," one person said.
Another observed that pricing policies depend on the store, adding, "Still find goodwills and other stores with great prices."
The Union Star reported that Goodwill, a registered nonprofit, said most of its store revenue supports its mission, which includes job training and veteran programs.
"That was an antique store for those prices you showed," a commenter quipped.
Where can I learn more?
Shoppers at other thrift stores have also questioned whether secondhand goods are still affordable.
• A Goodwill shopper questioned thrift-store pricing after spotting a $250 wooden trunk.
• At U.S. thrift stores, some used goods cost more than their brand-new equivalents.
• Thrifters say the vintage craze is pushing basic kitchenware to $12.99.
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