Thrifting helps shoppers in many ways

Thrift store shopping is a trend that has grown by leaps and bound over the past several years,

Commonly known as "thrifting," shopping for second-hand merchandise continues to increase in popularity for a number of reasons—environmental concern, cultural factors and economic motivations. Thrifting is projected to continue to grow—up to 12% per year—to a projected amount of $350 billion, worldwide, by 2028, according to some studies.

Between 2019 and 2025—in just six short years—shopping in United States thrift stores increased by an impressive 39.5% and last year alone, 58% of shoppers in the United States purchased items second hand.

Some opt for thrifting because of the environmental impact. Purchasing clothing second hand reduces carbon emissions by approximately 25% and saves energy and water, reduces landfill waste and offers a more sustainable alternative to shopping retail.  

Cultural factors have made thrifting more appealing to younger generations who find thrifting on digital sites such as PoshMark or ThredUp appealing. For many, thrifting combines things they value like sustainability, creativity and being frugal. Thrifting allows shoppers to create their own unique style at an affordable price.

Probably the biggest drive for thrifting—online or in stores—is a financial one. The average thrifter saves $200 to $500 per year buying second-hand clothing versus retail purchases, and according to studies, 42% of households in the United States visit thrift stores at least twice per year. Additionally, 80% of thrifters said that thrifting allows them to save money to use towards other goals, and 89% of thrifters say their main purpose in thrifting is financial savings.

While clothing (especially children’s clothes) is the category most sought at thrift stores, thrifters shop for many things second hand—accessories, jewelry, books, toys, tools, DVDs, household items, decor, holiday decor and even gift items. Many have even begun to create a business from thrifting, by flipping purchases—reselling the items at a profit.

Many thrift stores donate all—or at least a portion—of their profits to nonprofit entities, resulting in thrifters sharing that they feel good about shopping in thrift stores and feel more connected to their communities. 

Some other fun thrifting facts, according to studies:

34% of thrifters are hoping to find high-end brands at discounted prices.

40% of thrifters have found designer items at huge savings.

48% of thrifters now have a thrift-flip business.

30% of thrift store shoppers donate items to a thrift store at least twice per year.

70% of thrifters believe that the pastime has helped them become a better person.

Locally there are a large number of thrift stores, most of which raise funds for nonprofits in the area.

In Forsyth, in addition to the Encore Fashion Exchange, a used clothing consignment store, you will find the Bridge of Faith Thrift Store, Methodist Thrift Shop, Forsyth Senior Center Thrift Shop, CAM Thrift Store and the Forsyth Library Thrift Store.

Branson West is home to Caring Americans Thrift Store, Bag a Bargain Thrift Store, Open Hearts/Open Hands and Christian Associates Thrift Store. In nearby Reeds Spring, the Humane Society Thrift Store benefits the Tri-Lakes Humane Society.

In Hollister, you'll find Tot's Spot Resale Shop as well as the CORE Re-Store.

Branson is home to many second-hand shops, including the Clothing Exchange Consignment Shop. In the realm of thrift stores, you'll find Caring Community Thrift Store, United Methodist Thrift Store, Riley's Treasures, Elevate Branson Thrift Store, Branson Christian Church Thrift Shop, and two thrift stores dedicated to raising funds for the Branson Humane Society.

Why not visit one of the area thrift stores during your next shopping venture? You might help a local nonprofit organization, you will probably find some unique treasures, and you will certainly save money!

(Sources: Capital One Shopping, NY Weekly.com and SavingsAdvice.com)