Shoppers Express Growing Frustration with Charity Store Pricing
Many bargain hunters love the thrill of snagging a deal, but recent experiences in second-hand stores have left some feeling disillusioned. A local shopper shared her disappointment after visiting a nearby charity outlet, where prices seemed far from affordable. She highlighted how items from budget retailers like Primark were marked up to over £10—more than their original cost—making it hard to justify supporting the cause.
“Charity shops are not charity shops anymore,” she stated in a popular social media video. “I want to support charity, but they need to convince people to spend money there. I don’t want to spend money in a charity shop if I can get the item new and cheaper.” She pointed out that staff might be overpricing goods, which could explain why some stores are closing across the country. “Nobody wants to spend money on things that are so expensive and second-hand,” she added. “I think the people pricing items need to be a bit more aware of what they’re doing.”
She encouraged others to weigh in on whether their local spots still offer true value or if escalating costs are driving customers away.
Online Reactions Highlight Broader Concerns
Viewers quickly chimed in with their own stories. One commenter noted, “I used to shop a lot in charity shops, but now I find Vinted cheaper. I’ll do what’s best for my budget.” Another described an ongoing debate with a store manager: “She says that everything is more expensive, but their stock arrives for free.”
A third user reflected on shifting trends: “Charity shops were for people who couldn’t afford clothing, then it became a trend and prices got higher—so now people who can’t afford to buy new can’t even buy from charity shops. Five or six years ago, people would be too embarrassed to go in; now they’re ‘thrifting’.”
Not all experiences are negative, however. One person shared, “Agreed! There is a charity shop in my area and everything is £1—£2, and the place is always packed with shoppers.” Yet another criticized the shift: “It’s less about charity; it’s all about maximum profit and senior management wages. It’s a business now.”
Forums Echo Similar Sentiments in Low-Income Areas
Discussions on consumer advice sites reveal parallel frustrations, especially in economically challenged neighborhoods. One visitor described browsing several charity shops and being stunned by the tags. “I looked at a pair of jeans and the price tag was £300 in a charity shop,” they said. “Who goes into a charity shop in poverty-stricken areas and has the money to buy such an item? Are they capitalizing on low-income families? I thought these places were for people who can’t afford to shop in retail stores.”
When questioned, staff reportedly replied dismissively: “You didn’t have to buy them and you could go elsewhere.” The shopper expressed disgust, questioning if such pricing aligns with the charitable mission.
Balancing Affordability and Sustainability
Some defend the higher prices as a necessary adjustment. One commenter explained, “If a charity shop prices things too low, it rapidly gets weeded through by people who sell online for a profit.” This perspective suggests that strategic pricing helps sustain operations while funding vital causes, though it risks alienating core supporters who seek accessible options.
