Historically for me, this store has been "hit or miss". More often it's a "miss" simply because of the items I am searching for (kids clothes, toys, books). This store is located near a college town, so I think the finds are better suited for the college circuit (housewares, furniture & clothes). In fact, I witnessed one college shopper scoring a great deal on GORGEOUS stoneware - 4 place settings (huge coffee mugs) for only $5.
Very recently, the Goodwills in the Delaware have changed their pricing strategies and have replaced weekly color tag sales with monthly/quarterly VIP sales. As a result, there has been some grumbling in general and particularly about the prices at this location. Today was no exception. While I was shopping the kids clothing racks, I overheard a few regulars voicing their opinions. I just smiled to myself and kept shopping. If I don't like the price of something, I simply won't buy the item. No need to grumble. Did I see prices that were high? Yes, but remember, I am very biased when it comes to pricing. So, a price that is high to me, is a bargain to someone else.
Today was a "hit" day for me at the Newark store. Their pricing on kids clothing is now by the clothing size. Luckily, my boys still fall within the "young" pricing category (sizes 0-5) so the clothes I purchased were only $1.50 each. Now, you have to look closely at items to make sure there isn't a separate price tag. Goodwill now individually prices items depending on the type of clothing and brand. For example, I found a lot of smaller size winter jackets at $5 a piece (still a great price, but not $1.50).
Here are my finds for today:
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| A mix of brands, but still great finds. Everything was $1.50 each. Brands include Gymboree, Gap, Old Navy, Carters, Osh Kosh, etc. |
In addition to clothes, I found a few "new to my kids" Thomas DVDs for $3 each.
I did find another item. Actually a whole tote full of items. The tub of GeoTrax had a big sticker price. So much so, I decided to purchase my clothing/DVD purchases and "think" about the tote. Now, the tote was clear so I could see most of the pieces and gathered there was a good amount. Enough to warrant the price?
Off to the car I went and called my husband to see if he could search GeoTrax prices Note: This is where a SmartPhone would have been very handy, but since I don't have one, the hubby at home with internet access was the next best bet.
After a few searches, we determined that the Goodwill price was fair. Fair, not great? Well, I need to do more research. Either way, my boys will get plenty of play out of them at a fraction of the retail cost.
Moral of today's post: Don't dismiss your "hit or miss" thrift stores. The "hits" make the trips worthwhile and the "misses" provide learning opportunities (like what days to shop/avoid, etc).
I moved to the New Castle area a few months ago, and was wondering if you could make recommendations on the best Goodwills/thrift stores in the area? I've gone to a few, but haven't had much luck. I mainly look for books, women's clothing and housewares.
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