A November 19 article in the Boston Globe (view article at this LINK) says sales at secondhand stores, including Children’s Orchard, are increasing because in this economy more customers are warming to the idea of resale stores.
“As consumers tighten their purse strings amid the economic slowdown, many mainstream merchants are shuttering outlets, slashing prices, and struggling just to get customers in the doors. But thrift stores and resale shops are expanding their operations and preparing for one of the busiest holiday seasons ever as more people buy and sell used toys, clothes, and shoes.
“At Children’s Orchard in Milford, owner Gayle Gonthier Bell is expecting a strong holiday season, unlike many merchants who are predicting flat sales or worse. The chain, which has 70 stores nationwide, is planning to add another 100 shops in the next five years.
“Children’s Orchard features a mix of new and gently used merchandise, including toys from Melissa & Doug and My Little Pony sets. For consumers looking to sell toys, Children’s Orchard offers several options, including cash or store credit with additional bonuses.
“Gonthier Bell is hoping to drive even more traffic with a 20 percent promotion after Thanksgiving.
‘I want to give people a jump-start on their favorite gifts before going to retailers who are going to charge them three times as much,’ she said.”