Economy Sending New Customers To Thrift Stores

JACKSONVILLE, FL -- When it comes to finding a bargain, few retailers can match the variety and prices at area thrift stores. Though the merchandise is used, many stores are seeing "new" customers looking for more value.

"I'm looking for a platter. A turkey platter. I'm hoping it'll be here!" said Judy Schlosser at the Humane Society Thrift Store on Beach Boulevard.

Schlosser came in with her daughter, Rhonda, who lives in Kansas, where, she says, they don't have thrift stores. This mother-daughter team discovered the not-so-secret fact that you can find almost anything here, from a mountain of electronics to a replacement for that 7-iron you threw in the lake. There's crystal. Even fine Lenox china.

There are books and magazines galore.

"It's just too expensive to buy new books, nowadays," said a book enthusiast.

"The library and used book stores are the only way to go nowadays."

And there are literally tons and tons of clothes for sale.

Thrift stores we visited say more and more new customers are coming through the doors in this tighter economy. Claire Brock helps manage the flow of donations into and sales out of the Humane Society Thrift Store, where the proceeds help the animals.

"I think the way the economy is, people are realizing that $30-$40 jeans really can't be beat when you can come in here and get 'em for $4!"

Or $5 if they're brand new with the tags still on. You can even find the proverbial kitchen sink!

And donations keep piling up.

"It always helps the pockets when you can find something for less. Something that's nice quality," said bargain hunter Marvin Striggles.

And Judy Schlosser? She found her new turkey tray.

"With the economy the way it is, this is the way to stretch your dollar and get nice items -- and it's recycling!" said Schlosser.