Thrift shopping surge: A sign of economic stress or the recycling ethic?

A short take before wishing you a Happy New Year. . . .

A press release from Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake says thrift shopping has surged across the region, with shopper traffic up more than 30% for the year, and some locations exceeding 40% growth. Goodwill notes increased demand for used goods — women’s apparel, in particular — among younger and first-time thrift shoppers. Other items in demand include shoes, housewares and electronics.

Over the years, this kind of increase in second-hand retail has accompanied general economic stress or uncertainty, with higher unemployment or inflation prompting consumers to seek cheaper alternatives. One such boost occured during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some trend-watching organizations predicted this year that Trump tariffs on imported goods would send more consumers to thrift stores.

Another major factor is the recycle ethic among millenials — that is, a rethinking of what we buy and how much we need. It goes with a general awareness that we have lived too long as a throw-away society and need to repurpose second-hand clothing and furnishings instead of unhappily participating in the orgy of mass consumption. In addition to shopping in thrift stores, the recyle ethic means giving up stuff no longer needed. On that point, Goodwill of the Chesapeake notes that donations of used items are up about 16% year over year, and the non-profit is experiencing a surge in donations right now, post-Christmas and before the new year.

Speaking of the new year — I wish all my followers, readers and friends a happier and healthy 2026. Please keep in touch. In addition to posts here on WordPress, you can find me weekly in BaltimoreFishbowl, from month to month in Baltimore Brew, two or three times a week with commentary on Substack, on stage in March, and now and then at the Swallow at the Hollow. Cheers.