Kelly Stephenson, OfferUp VP, on popularity of thrifting: “People look for meaningful, high-quality gifts at fair prices”
Americans are losing their stigma about shopping for gifts at secondhand stores, saving money and giving items a second life.
People who enjoy thrifting will tell you there are some real treasures to be found in secondhand stores. Those with an eye for what they are looking for have come across designer shoes, luxury items, and even valuable antiques for just a few bucks.
However, more and more people are also turning to thrift stores and apps to fill their Christmas gift list. In the process they are saving wads of cash while at the same time looking out for the environment by giving items a second life and keeping them out of landfills.
“Meaningful, high-quality gifts at fair prices”
The stigma around shopping at secondhand stores has been waning, including for gifts. So much so that slightly more than 8 out of ten shoppers in a recent survey said they would dedicate part of their Christmas budget to buying secondhand items.
Twenty-seven percent of respondents said more than half their budget would be spent thrifting according to the popular online marketplace for selling new and used items, OfferUp.
“What was once considered an option is now a preferred way to shop,” said OfferUp VP Kelly Stephenson speaking to USA TODAY. “Especially during the holidays, as people look for meaningful, high-quality gifts at fair prices, often right within their own communities.”
Consumers don’t have to leave home to go thrifting
Nowadays, consumers don’t have to go from store to store or visit flea markets and garage sales to go thrifting. There are a number of apps that shoppers can use from the convenience of their home.
Maryal Miller Carter of LoveandSpecs.com shared some of her favorites. They include OfferUp, Poshmark, Etsy, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace. These apps let you compare prices and conditions before buying and even let you negotiate directly with the seller.
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