A second-hand shopping enthusiast has revealed he has stopped visiting charity shops, claiming that price increases have made them worse value than buying brand new items on the high street.
Jordan Lee, known on social media as @thecarbootguy, regularly posts content documenting his finds while thrifting. In an Instagram post, he stated that he no longer frequents charity shops, particularly large chains, due to what he described as 'sad change' in pricing.
"I honestly don't go into charity shops as much anymore, especially the big, well-known chains, simply because of the prices," he wrote. He added: "Whether you're popping in to try and resell items online or just hoping to find yourself a bargain, it sometimes feels like the whole point has been lost."
Reselling platforms offer cheaper alternatives
Jordan suggested that reselling platforms like Vinted often offer the same brands in good condition at a fraction of charity shop prices. He claimed: "I've even seen things in charity shops priced higher than they would be brand new in the actual high street store!"
While acknowledging that charities need to raise funds, he questioned whether pricing out customers was the right approach: "I completely understand charities need to raise funds, but surely out pricing your customers isn't the way?"
Mixed reactions from followers
Not all of Jordan's followers agreed with his stance. One user commented: "I think you're missing the point of charity shops tbh mate. They have simply clocked onto resellers and started to learn the worth of what they are selling. More money to charity and less resellers buying means people who actually might need it get it for a cheaper price."
Another remarked: "I will never get mad at the price of something in a charity shop. If it's not in my budget I simply just don't buy it." A third added: "£24 for an H&M jacket is robbery, although I would pay, seeing that the money goes to an Hospice."
However, some sided with Jordan. One user commented: "They are definitely more expensive. I use to buy a lot from charity shops for myself but now I don't really get anything from them."
Charity shops have grown in popularity among bargain hunters and resellers, but rising prices have sparked debate about their affordability and purpose.
