‘It’s a win-win for everyone’: shoppers hit thrift stores ahead of Christmas

ORLANDO, Fla. — It’s the homestretch of holiday shopping. Many are now trying to get that last-minute gift for their loved ones before Christmas.

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However, while many are hitting the malls or online shopping, others are heading to thrift stores. “I always try to hit the Goodwill every time I travel,” said Dustin Gonzalez, who is visiting Orlando with his wife and two daughters. “I know Goodwill puts back into the community, so it’s always good to shop within them.”

Although shopping at the outlets, malls, and online are still at the top of the list when it comes to consumer patterns every holiday season, according to the National Retail Federation, there’s a new trend of folks choosing a different approach. “My wife will think this came from the jewelry store; it did, but from the Goodwill Jewelry store,” said Michael Reid, proudly displaying the watches he bought for his wife and son for less than $70 total.

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Thrift shopping has become a new trend over the past few years, with consumers looking for cheaper and more sustainable gifts. “Shopping second-hand is a great option to save some money and save items from the landfill,” said Karla Jimenez with Goodwill of Central Florida. “It is also a great way to give back to the community. It’s a win-win for everyone!”

Thrifting seems to be even more popular among younger shoppers. According to the National Retail Federation, one in every five adults between 18 and 24 years old is searching for presents at thrift stores this holiday season. “We do see that people are choosing second-hand a lot more lately,” said Jimenez. “You see the trends on social media, especially TikTok, and Gen-z.”

Goodwill’s big Holiday Sale – named Thristmas – continues until December 31st.

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