By Steve Lathrop
Albany Democrat-Herald | Posted: Monday, December 15, 2008 12:00 am
Sandra Tomasiewicz is smiling more this month.
The manager of Albany's Goodwill Industries thrift store, Tomasiewicz has seen an increase in sales of nearly 4 percent since the summer. It's a trend that was expected at many thrift stores because of the troubled economy, but she says the confirming numbers are still good to see.
"Things are tougher this year in Albany and we've picked up a little trickle-down because of it," she said. "My sales people tell me there are a lot of new faces among our customers. It makes me smile to see so many in the store."
The Albany trend is typical at Goodwill stores throughout Oregon. According to Dale Emanuel of the regional office in Portland, sales are up almost 8 percent statewide.
For Steven Costello the situation is a little different. He has been a little surprised at the way sales have unfolded at the Teen Challenge Thrift Store in Shedd.
"I thought sales would be up quite a bit, but really they haven't changed much at all. We haven't had a noticeable increase," said Costello, who manages the faith-based store that supports in-patient programs for men 18 and over.
One area where there has been an increase is in sales of holiday-related items.
"Christmas knickknacks have been big. I think people aren't shopping the bigger stores for those things this year," Costello said.
It's a similar trend at Goodwill.
"Anything to do with Christmas, such as ornaments, decorations, lights or even Christmas clothing is doing very well," Tomasiewicz said. "Shopping here can help people stretch their dollar."
People are also checking out items to give as gifts, at least at the Albany Helping Hands Thrift Store in the Carriage House Plaza.
"It's a bit unusual but people are looking to buy for other people," said Manager Tim Hansen.
They are also looking to replenish items they may no longer have due to foreclosures or their economic situation, he said.
"The recession has people looking for a bargain. I used to get one call a month about toasters or pots and dishes. Now I'm getting five a day," he said.
Most agencies are indicating that donations of items have remained strong. Keeping inventory in the stores does not appear to be a problem.
"Our donation flow has been consistent. We are still getting things for the shelves," Costello said.
The strenght of donations allows thrift shops to keep shelves stocked and provide choices for shoppers.
"The way things are coming in now we have plenty of shoppers," Tomasiewicz said. "We're able to put out new goods every day."