WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — As families continue to shoulder the burden of high costs for essentials, many may look to discount stores to fight inflation.
In the thrift store market, Goodwill and The Salvation Army have widespread name recognition.
But lesser-known spots like Value Village are staying competitive with big inventory and special sales.
At the discount store’s Prince George’s County location near College Park along University Boulevard, customers are showing up for different reasons.
Lizbeth Siliezar told DC News Now she saved money on supplies for bartending school.
“I got myself two bottles for only two dollars, and other places like Amazon — [with] empty bottles I was trying to purchase — I saw it for $25,” she told DC News Now Friday.
Some consumers express immense interest in thrifting, including Margaret (who did not wish to share her last name), saying, “I’m clearly addicted.”
Margaret said her clothing discoveries include a “cashmere blanket, fringed in camel hair, for $4.90…’ ‘I bought a Burberry quilted jacket, tags still on it, for $30 before discount.”
Boasting organized men’s and women’s clothing sections, the discount store offers seasonal deals on decor, and unique bagged bundle offers for kids’ toys, holiday items and kitchen essentials.
According to a 2021 survey from ThredUp, 33 million people bought secondhand clothes for the first time in 2020 when the pandemic hit, going on to say the secondhand market could reach $77 billion in 2026.
In-store Value Village discounts include 20% when you drop off clothes and household items, 25% savings on Mondays, and 30% off on Tuesdays for seniors.
Shopping and donation hours are from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, while operation hours on Sundays run from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
