An Examination of Thrift Store Shoppers

An increasing number of service organizations are developing thrift stores to raise resources to support their mission-directed activities. Such stores seek donated merchandise . . . sell it . . . and use the proceeds to support their altruistic efforts. The purpose of this study is to examine the processes by which thrift store shoppers: (a) decide to buy pre-owned merchandise, (b) get information about competing shopping outlets, and (c) select which organization(s) are appropriate for their particular purchase decision. A web survey was administered to assess these processes. The results will allow organizations to evaluate their existing thrift store practices against shopper preferences in the interest of fulfilling their service missions.