Something smelled foul at Value Village. No, it wasn’t the scent of grandma’s 50-year-old fur wrapped in decade long mothballs. Nope. But the smell was indeed stank and it seemed to stink up every corner of the popular Canadian thrift store, which is called ‘Savers’ in the United States.
After careful inspection and a few frugal laps around the so-called ‘village of value’, I found the odorous source. THE PRICES! Have you smelled the prices at Value Village lately? They STINK! Well, at least they seemed a little rank under my schnoz for savings.
Being a person of curiosity before accusation, I left Value Village empty handed for the first time ever, and went online to see if fellow thrifters smelled something stinky too. Turns out a lot of former villagers are turning up their noses at the higher prices and flaring their nostrils on Value Village’s Facebook page. Check it out these comments:
Were these disgruntled bargain shoppers right? Could you really buy brand new clothing at retail for less than the price of used at Value Village? With my squawky senses tingling, I launched my blue Smart Car in search of savings, and even examples of price gouging at Value Village. This is what I found.
First of all, Value Village still sells some tacky-a$$ed s$it. This maybe-wooden windmill ‘decoration’ will give your friends hundreds of reasons to mock you for only $14.99.
Buy this dusty puffball thing with garish googly eyes for $4.99 and I’ll personally teach you about The Trouble With Tribbles. Don’t make me do it.
After a little fun, I got down to some serious money-crunching journalistic-like work. Since I know a lot about jeans *cough*, I decided to hit up Value Village’s denim racks first. And the prices boggled my blue pant lovin’ brain.
Are you freaking kidding me? Paying $14.99 for a pair of used Gap jeans may seem a steal, but I’ve found them for far less new by sleuthing the sales. Check out my brand new pair of Gap 1969 boot cuts for $4.97. I squawk you not.
The best part about not shopping Value Village’s denim rack? No one’s crotch has ever worn, wiggled in, or worn out my brand new pants. Crotch-free shopping for less, people. I’m into it.
Now onto winter wear, ’cause I live in Canada and it’s cold outside.
Behold the $49.99 pair of USED snow pants. U.S.E.D. As in frolicked in the f-cking snow a few too many times for a dollar shy of fifty bucks. You know who’s a dollar shy of a Canadian loonie? Value Village for pricing this sad pair of padded pants for $50. I bought my winter wonderland pants for $29 at Costco last year. That’s right, no one has dangled their winter woobie in my snowies AND I saved $20 over Value Village by shopping brand new.
Invest $17.99 in this very used Gap vest at Value Village and cry in the cold when this badboy gets discounted for around $25 in Gap stores across North American in late November. That’s how much I paid for mine.
Wanna go dancing?
You’ll be trippin’ the light fantastic in these moldy heels for $9.99. I called Payless, Winners (called T.J.Maxx in the States), and Walmart for a price comparison on these stellar shoes. Payless, Winners, and Walmart wouldn’t sell me moldy shoes at any price. Sorry.
Speaking of Walmart shoes, check out these ‘Wizard of Oz’ type kiddie kicks for $4.99.
If you want a real deal, I suggest you follow the yellow brick road right back to their home at Walmart where you can buy this pair for $5 on sale. The savings will make the Tin Man squeak.
Time to play with some toys.
Thrift stores like Value Village can be the perfect place to score barely used kid’s toys for a buck or two.
But this $4 baggie of used teething toys is very well-chewed, and kinda gross. I’d rather spend $2 more at Walmart and come home with something fresh for my baby to drool over. I’ll chew on the peace of mind, thank you.
Speaking of chewing…
Would you pay nearly $4 for this red dragon thing to growl at you? The dollar store sells dinosaur figures like this for under $2, brand new.
Behold two naked Barbie dolls in a bag for the price of $3.99. These double gal pals are a fair price, but they’re naked. And every little girl knows that Barbie needs clothes! So you’re still on the hook for a dress or two. Unless your Barbie is a stripper — then she’s perfect straight outta the plastic baggie. Kudos.
Kids grow fast and need clothing to keep up with their lengthening limbs. Thrift stores can be a great place to replenish their clothing for less. Maybe.
I’ve purchased hats, onesie bodysuits, and t-shirts brand new for $1.99 or less at Walmart, Carter’s, OshKosh, and Old Navy. Why would I buy this stuff used (and shrunken) for the same price? Pass.
While you won’t find many savings on kiddlet tops at Value Village, the pants can be a steal. But you have to hunt! Bottoms up…
I couldn’t resist this $2.99 pair of Baby Gap overalls. They’re green! Heaven. These retail for over $25 new, and it’s nearly impossible to find a set of crazy green Gap pants for under $3. Sold.
The ‘Genuine Baby’ line of clothing are by OshKosh and sell at Target. A similar pair is currently on sale for $11.90. I prefer this used set for $2.99. Sold.
Two pairs of overalls — that’s all I bought during my trip to Value Village.
So where am I going with this?
The prices at Value Village currently stink. The company has addressed people’s “concerns”, which are really hundreds of negative comments pointing out the price increases on Value Village’s Facebook Page. Value Village welcomes your feedback. 
If you’re feeling miffed and a little stiffed by shopping thrift, I suggest you take your business elsewhere and email your customer complaint to Value Village here: customercare@savers.com. Companies only listen when people like you speak up.
Sure, I’ll still peek into Value Village during their big 50% off sales and maybe find something rare and awesome (like green overalls), but as a savvy shopper who price checks everything, I’ll likely stick to the department store sales to find great deals on new items since they often cost the same used at Value Village.
I’m curious about your thoughts.
Do you still shop at Value Village? Are the prices fair, or are they way too high for used goods?
Love,
Kerry
If you enjoyed this article and would like more, enter your email address in the box below. Articles from Squawkfox.com will be sent to your email inbox for free. Your email will not be shared. You can unsubscribe at any time.
Plus, you'll get this free 92-page ebook.
Your two cents:
Finding a deal there is a rarity now.
I wonder if it’s a marketing ploy though. Bump up prices, have more “special” days (50% off, seniors, members days etc), then sell it for what it is worth on those special days. If you want it bad enough to pay “full price”, you’ll pay it.
Thanks for confirming what I have been gripeing about for months, Kerry. I’ve noticed the very same thing and I now don’t even bother with Value Village. There are so many other options out there to waste time and money there.
I mostly shop at Goodwill because not only are their prices lower but they don’t have to charge tax as Value Village does. I won’t go to 50% off days because it’s too crowded. I also try not to donate to VV.
Totally agree about Value Village. We have a local Bibles For Missions thrift store and they just want to move their stuff out the door, so prices are much better. Plus I like where the money is going, rather than the private owner of VV.
Even if I agree with you that some of the VV prices are getting too high, thing is, prices at Walmart and others are too LOW. I do not take pride in encouraging them.
I agree V.V. has gone to crap. I think the biggest thing is the have a bunch of young teens dealing with the pricing, we all know most teens are not good with prices.
I also have tried bringing stuff there and have nothing but problems. A couch in great shape but there was a 4inch mark under the cushions they.wouldn’t take it.
I loathe giving money to WalMart so try to avoid it, even for a bargain.
I personally would rather shop in a vintage store where the owner/buyers have combed through used clothing shops across the city and pulled out the best of the best. I don’t mind paying a premium for the luxury of looking at a small rack of finds instead of a gymnasium-sized store. Also more than happy to be supporting an independent business.
How timely! I was just there over the weekend and was shocked to see that all the cute dresses were 19.99$! What?!? I’m appalled to see that they can charge so much for items they have been GIVEN for FREE. But I don’t want to support corporate giants like Wal-Mart, and I’d rather keep clothes out of the landfills. What’s the answer?
I just read the other comments…Goodwill here is twice as expensive as VV. 20$ for jeans! Pardon me, 20.02$. What’s up with their crazy palindrome pricing?
While I do agree that VV’s prices are too high, some charities receive the bulk of their funding when items/clothing are donated to VV, so the company is not all corporate greed (although it would be interesting to know if the charities $/per bag rate has gone up as well as VV’s prices).
For someone who has worked with value village for five years, the prices have gone up slightly but so has prices in every store, so for you people who complain about us marking our. Stuff too high yet you can get it from walmart and other companies for cheaper, that’s bull. I was just in a walmart right now and the cheapest baby item was a pair of newborn socks for $3.77. We price ours usually at .69 each. I love shopping at value village even before I worked there and ill still shop there after I leave the company. So to the customers who all just complain, the prices here and everywhere else aren’t going down, especially with the economy these days, so get used to it. Finally just FYI, we don’t get our stuff for free, 4% of each cart we weigh goes back to charities in each district. You may think that’s not a lot but we process over 5000 items a day so all in all it helps the community with the extra $715.00 they get from us each day. Thats why things are taxed in our store because WE DON’T GET STUFF FOR FREE!! However we PST tax isn’t included in childrens clothes, shoes and our books, there’s some good news. As a cashier hearing the same complaints about our prices, it gets old very fast so there’s some education about our company. Nothing in life comes free so stop being so negative. Sincerely vv employee:)
The value has left value village. Do go anymore.
It’s also called Value Village in some areas of the US, such as Oregon.
I think that like at any store, you need to know your prices and be prepared to walk away.
The pricing can be crazy sometimes. I’ve picked up 2 identical(cheap and cheerful) vases, one was $2 the other was $5. Huh?
I will probably pop in once in a while, but a “hunting” expedition at Value Village just isn’t fun anymore.
Can’t wait til Garage Sale Season where books are 5 for $1, not $2 each.
I live in Calgary, Canada.One of the most expensive city in Canada, and North America too.VV was a few years ago, good deal. but my husband everytime joke and sometimes,…im thought : His could be right : in VV the clothes and donations (high quality of clothes brand news…..etc…) is come from people how died.or passaway….(sorry english is not my first lenguage), so, between that, im understand how some clothes is look new…..very new, and im sad because the exploted by them bussines this. In other hand, I checked here in Calgary, they are tricky, yep! because, they overprice some brands and i found a lanvin pant (so top french and stranger designer for 4.99$) and We can think: ok! the people how put the price dont have idea how kind the designer is come from, BUT IM VERY VERY THINKING ,NOT! THIS JUST A TRAMP…..THE MAKE HAPPY FOR A DAY A FAMILY VIA FCBK OR BLOGS…..ABOUT HOW GOOD DEALS YOU CAN FIND IN VV AND THEN :CATCHIT!….PRICE MOVE UP AND UP……MAY BE WHEN THEY DONT HAVE TOO MCH STAFF!…. SO WE NEED (COSTUMER) TO BE SMART…AND NOT GET THE STUPID IDEA TO SAFE THE PLANET BY THE WAY TO BUY USED AND NASTY AND NOT TRANSPARENT BUSSINESS PEOPLE
Value Village is leading the way in price gouging….I’ve been noticing it for the past couple years. Yes, on occation, you can find a “deal”, but rarely…like Kerry mentioned, if you shop the clearance racks at retailers you can walk away with steals! However, for everyday items, the so called, value, is gone. Ironically, I was just researching this same issue and found an interesting article about how Value Village is gouging the charities it touts as supporting. These charities have had their contracts changed without consultation. Not only do they need to bring in X-amount of soft goods to fulfil their obligation, but they also need to bring in hard goods like furniture. These hard goods do not bring the charities any dough…just the soft goods. Hmmmmmm…ya, ya, costs smoshts….google “Value Village profits. ‘Nuf said, THANKS KERRY!
I’m with you Kerry, I prefer to shop new and on sale over shopping at thrift stores most of the time. True, the thrift stores can be cheaper but you can find some amazing clearance deals at the mall and at the department stores that are nearly as cheap and sometimes even cheaper than the used item as you so clearly pointed out.
unfortunately I have not choice but to shop hear but I only go in for clothing. I wear plus sizes and it is incredibly hard to find young looking clothing brand new for a reasonable price
zellars (too old), sear ($100 for a pair of jeans or too old), the bay (too old), addition-elle ($60 for jeans) or Wal-mart (really far away and rarely – I don’t drive) so sometimes I have no choice but to go to VV but I hate it. Prices have gone up. BTW know anywhere I can get clothing for cheap for a 2XL?
While I’ve never shopped at a Value Village (Goodwill is the second hand store that I tend to frequent)I completely agree that those prices seem outrageous. However, there is an argument that you may be able to find better brands and higher quality clothes, even if used, at thrift stores than at some of the chains, which are notorious for mass producing cheap and inexpensive clothing. This makes those clothes more likely to be disposed when they fall apart after a couple of wearings and end up becoming more crap in our landfills. Not sure there’s a good answer to this dilemma. Just something to think about.
A reader emailed this comment:
Hi Kerry;
I so so agree about the gouging @ VV.
The thing that makes them different that people don’t know is they are a FOR PROFIT org that actually sells the stuff not sold here in the stores to other countries.
How I know this? I have complained to VV staff/ managers @ various Niagara region stores for the past two years about the outrageous prices of 2nd hand clothing. For years I donated my used clothing there as a firm believer in recycling & having grown up shopping at Amity/ thrift shops/ Goodwill in Toronto.
It is a crime when Canadians donate their used items believing they are going to help those less fortunate, when in reality they are ” retail priced” too high for low income earners to even consider – then shipped internationally! I want my donations to be available for local consumption!
My advice – start shopping as you suggest @ retail store clearance sales of new merchandise or the more realistic 2nd hand options rather than the Big Box Gouger Value Village where, quite frankly, there ain’t no value anymore.
Value Village is overpriced most definitely. I rarely ever go there, having long ago noted that buying new is more thrifty. I do, however, similar to others who have posted like to avoid buying everything new. I find I have been pretty lucky with getting clothing at .. yes, garage sales, hand me downs from friends and clothing swaps. I will though spend quite a bit of money on wool, to knit a sweater that takes hours to create. That is not savings of either time or money when you compare it to the price of a sweater from the mall. Sometimes I will buy something from an artisan that costs quite a bit too (in comparison). All of our choices laden with values that have their own unique worth, sometimes outside of the price tag.
Callie – Winners has a great selection of plus size clothing.
Kerry,
I shop at the same Value Village as you, and I would agree that their prices are particularly outrageous. Kelowna and Kamloops don’t seem quite as extreme, but they’re rising also. I’m lucky inasmuch as my work generally allows me to shop the half price sale days, so I when I can go, I head in early. Otherwise, forget it!
They also seem to have fewer promotions (i.e. stamp cards) and when they do, the spending/donating requirements are much higher than they used to be.
VV has been over priced for quite awhile now. I read an article on the “big” business these types of places are doing based on the fact that their products are donated and it was astounding. That being said Wal-Mart isn’t really cheap when you have to buy 3 of the same items a year because of quality. I find that buying cheap can be more expensive in the long run… My personal argghhh? The can opener. Under a buck at Wal-Mart but I would go through one a month because the dang thing would always break.. Smartened up, albeit after a few months too many, and spent 10 dollars (on sale) for a well crafted name brand one and have been using it for over a year with no issues…
I don’t bother going into VV anymore…can never find anything cheap enough to justify buying used. On the other hand, I always find something (generally for my kids) at the Salvation Army close to my house. And when looking to donate items, I always take them to Sally Ann because at least more of the money earned on the items will be helping people, not lining the pockets of the CEOs of the organization.
I tried on some jeans there last week. When looking at the price tags, one pair I grabbed were $69.99!!!!! For used jeans. Unbelievable.
i stopped shopping at VV a long time ago. Their prices were outrageous for the quality of the goods. They may be supporting charities, but I’m pretty sure that these charities could fundraise in a different manner and still come out ahead. A friend went shopping for winter boots for the express purpose of just being used to play in the snow, and found a pair with completely worn-down grips and collapsed toe boxes for $29.99, that was the nail in the coffin for both us shopping at VV.
I live in California and lost faith in thrift shops long ago when I found a very used basic torchiere lamp for $14.99 at a local thrift store. I was positive that it sold new at Home Depot for that price! I still occasionally attempt thrift stores when looking for Halloween costumes or one time use items, but more often than not I leave empty handed. I get my bargains at the Dollar Store, Target and WalMart sale racks! Also, Craigslist (don’t forget to check the Free section!)
THANK YOU for this post! I followed that thread on Facebook too and weighed in. I’m glad it’s not just my imagination that their prices are TERRIBLE and I’m glad you have confirmed to me that I can buy new for less. You rock SquawkFox!
I have noticed the prices seem to be getting high. I still go there, but find myself leaving empty handed more often than not. I can’t believe some of the stuff that gets onto the floor sometimes…. but I still find a deal on the odd occasion.
Kerry, I totally agree with you. Was in VV a couple of months ago to shop for glassware for my nephew for university and was horrified at pricing! For the same price they asked for 3 scratched and tired looking glasses I was able to buy a set of 4 boxed beautiful Anchor glasses for $3 at the dollar store! While shopping , I overheard comments made by other shoppers about the unreasonable pricing so the feeling is out there.
Also years ago I found beautiful cashmere sweaters there for a reasonable price so I check in from time to time. However, given the pricing level currently, I doubt they would still be a bargain…
PRICES ARE TOO HIGH I HARDLY SHOP THERE .
I stopped shopping there long ago. I have gone in a couple of times a year looking for things and usually walk out empty handed. The little ones such as Hospital Auxilary etc are much better. I have the benefit going to visit family in the USA and there Goodwill is much better especialy on Stat holidays as then the deals are even better. Yes the dollar store is better than VV!!
We do not have a Value Village where I live in Campbell River,BC, but there is one in Courtenay. Although, we do have a Salvation Army Thrift Store, whose prices are probably higher than Value Village, especially their Christmas stuff. They price ornaments higher than what you can buy at Walmart or Can. Tire. I also prefer to donate items like womens clothing to the local Womans’ Centre where clothing is given out free. Even the Liquidation World store is cheaper.
Value Village also pays for clothing collected by the Can. Diabetes clothing drives that do scheduled Pick ups in our area. I have always found good deals at Walmart on their clearance sales.
For Halloween the kids and I popped in to V V to look for a “rock star” top for my 12 year old. She got lucky with one for $2.99. My 9 year old son, however, gave up as he just couldn’t find anything reasonable. Even the kids were saying, “they want how much for that?!?”
Then my son fell in love with a stack of Guinness World Record books to add to his treasured collection. I just about choked when they wanted $5 a piece for them! The local, hospital fundraiser thrift store sells the ones they get for $0.50 each, or $1.00 if they’re in nearly perfect shape!! I felt so bad for him because he just loves those books.
He did buy a couple of them with his allowance, but even he recognized that what he spent cut into his spending money more than he’d have liked.
I know V V supports charities and their programs by buying used items, but if less people buy at V V overall, that funding is in jeopardy then too.
I almost wrote a book in response to this post, but I’ll shorten it a bit. Yes, I still shop at VV, for the same reason as Callie–options are limited for plus-sized women. Other thrift stores don’t size their merchandise. I also shop at Wal-Mart, because really, being poor and a 2X doesn’t leave you much choice.
But if you’re really broke (or just plain cheap), why don’t you try to eliminate cash altogether? It’s not only possible to get stuff free, it’s actually easy.
Through my church friends, I’ve been given a matching couch and chair set for my living room, an almost new condition sofa bed and lamp for my office, all of a quality that I could not afford even if used. When I was really down and out and needed interview clothes, I put an ad in our church bulletin, asking for clothes in my size, and got several big bags of stuff, all of which was in excellent condition. What I couldn’t use, I donated.
Or you can do what we do now: Host a free event where people bring in new or almost new unwanted stuff. We sort the stuff, then we open the doors, and folks can take what they want or need.
A man who visited last night to pick up some of my excess guppies (given away for free), told me that he had done most of his Christmas shopping on Kijiji, which is another source of cheap or free stuff.
We used to pick up some great deals but now I only go in to get some overalls for the winter outside which I usually find for decent prices as I need good ones. On the rare occasion I find some t-shirts that are pricey and in decent condition as well. We have noticed the prices going up and up but like you we find the odd great deal or go in on a 50% off day. It’s the greed that’s going to take them down just like any other business who gets high up on their horse. What gets me going is the fact that they charge bloody tax on items that have already been taxed by the original purchaser then tax us again on the blinkin stuff that is USED… I don’t get it how Canada operates sometimes but that stinks to me! Great post SF! Mr.CBB
Hi there, and am liking the comments so far. I live in Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada. Here the VV is still a value, IMHO. Yes, you can get cheaper sometimes by venturing to the new-stuff stores, but consider this: How much more time would it take to find those rare deals than to simply visit VV a few times a year during their 50%-off sales? If you are a time-challenged (and who isn’t?) but discriminating shopper, you can buy every category of stuff, of every make and style, in VV.
For my money, I’d rather find a whole whack of diverse, interesting goods that have already had the chemicals washed out and have NOT put more strain on the worldwide resources that go into manufacturing clothing (including the social justice angle on this). I suppose if you’re someone who likes to buy 6 of the same make and size clothes just in different colours, you won’t like VV (but then, how many Baby Gap bargain basement sales will have that anyway?).
From what I can see here, it might be a matter of where your particular VV is located. Mine are not jacking prices up like some of the folks here have seen, and the goods are actually high-quality in my neighbourhood (high standard of living for most, but still lots of people stretched more than ever).
And in general, all stores will have a few things that are a true rip-off. But one woman’s junk … you just have to know the value of something to you.
I love your articles – both their contents and their scrappy tone.
Michelle (aka SimplyRead)
I have not shopped at Value Village for years now. Even tho they make jobs for people, mostly women. someone (many in fact) are getting rich at the top. Places like Goodwill, Salvation Army, Mennonite Central Committiee (Ontario) use their profits for overseas and local volunteer progammes. These stores do not charge taxes as they are classed as CHARITY.
I agree that VV is becoming more expensive, and that Vernon is more expensive than Kelowna.
I don’t get all the people complaining about the greed, etc., though. Value Village is a business, and businesses are in business to make a PROFIT.
I think a more legit complaint is that so many people think VV is a charitable org, when it is not, however, if you don’t like it, don’t donate to them. I donate to the local Salvation Army and Senior Thrift Shops, as then I know the money earned stays in MY community and helps local people.
VV pays those Charities a $/lb for all the curbside, personally donated, & those charity calls asking for used clothing they collect. Also if companies such as GAP, OLD NAVY, WALMART etc have unsold overstock it is squished into a tight square & again, just like metal VV will pay them so much per lb. That is VV ‘helping local charity’. Everything else is profit after wages. They DON’T have a pricing system just a bunch of people with a price gun. You have to scan EVERY item & you just might luck out & find an adult sz jeans/pants $6.99 (my max) & adult shirts $2.99-$4.99 & did in fact find brand new mens PJ pants fleese for $2.99. My issue is Coorporate with VV & I don’t go often, never on 50% days b/c of crowd, & stick to my local thrift (but those are so limited). I have to travel 30-40mins for the closest GAP, OLD NAVY, CHILDREN’S PLACE so going ‘shopping’ would be very planned.
We don’t have a VV here but we do have a for profit thrift store called Unique. What I like to shop for great bargains are several thrift stores run by local shelters. Each shelter whether for the homeless, battered women, teenage mothers, or other type shelter has a store of it’s own to accept donations and sells at very reasonable prices. Often the people in the shelter does volunteer work in the store and gets store credit to spend when they get a home of their own. All store profits go directly to the charity running it. I often pay a price higher than I believe it should be because I know who will benefit. “For profit” thrift stores are just not my idea of shopping for bargains or giving donations.
I’m glad to see others are deciding to bypass Value Village too. I have left empty-handed the last three times I went there; I won’t be going back. Why bother when (as others have stated) better deals can be found for new items in retail stores? I am also going back to giving my gently-used items to the Salvation Army or other charity shops. You know, I just feel ‘dirty’ now after leaving Value Village…my hands feel like they need sanitizer.
Nope. I recently discovered the St. Vincent de Paul (Vinnie’s) – money goes to charity, great selection, very reasonable prices. Not going to tell you what town I’m in – it’s my little secret!
My Mother-in-law used to love that place!!! She and her sister dropped a small fortune there at the local store. I don’t have one anywhere near where I live so I shop at the Salvation Army Thrift store. It’s in town within walking distance. Our younger son used to work there P/T until the economy crashed and they had to let him go due to reduced sales. He had the least seniority so that was that. I know that the money raised there stays in town and I know that when people leave crap outside the store they have to pay to take it to the landfill. Our son hated garage sale season as people would drop off the junk that didn’t sell at the thrift store for them to haul away on Monday.
I’ve never been to Value Village, but have been told it is a great store here in St. Catharines, Ontario.
Was also told to wait till after Holloween to go there, because of the holiday’s prices.
But now after reading all this, I may not go there at all.
If any of your readers are from St. Kitts, please let me know what you think of the V V store on Ontario St.
Thanks
Tom
I used to really like VV for many of the reasons already mentioned. I mean where can you get such a good selection of clothes by going into one store. But, the prices have gone crazy (I heard Winners had taken over). I only shop there on Seniors Day (Tuesday) for the 20% off. But even then it’s hard to find a bargain. My condo is doing an Out of the Cold clothing drive so I went to VV today in the hopes of picking up some cheap mitts, toques etc. to donate. I really was flabbergasted when I saw a pair of mitts that had been hand knitted – they were nothing special and were $4.99! Give me a break. Also books are a rip off too – original price $10.95+ are $4.99 – even paperbacks are originally $10.99. No wonder they have soooo many books – you’d think they’d mark them down to get rid of them.
Love your posts Kerry and I’m going to email my comments to VV too.
I live in the U.S. No V.V. near me…. However in the past, I have purchased LEVIS at great prices After your description “No one’s crotch has ever worn, wiggled in, or worn out my brand new pants. Crotch-free shopping for less, people. I’m into it.” I have decided to purchase new! LOL!
p.s. You Rock!
Vv is the greatest place on earth, I love the discounts and the costumer service. I always leave with a smile on my face. I live in oshawa, ontario and you won’t get a better deal on furniture then the v.v. In oshawa. I always donate to see the super cute redhead with glasses! Everyone should love value village!
I live in Vernon and have stopped going to VV. The prices seemed to have more than doubled in the last two years alone. About five years ago you could get some really great bargains, but honestly I agree with Kerry. I looked and looked until I was exhausted; for the price a lot of the merchandise was garbage and handsomely priced. So I turned around and went to the mall and was pleased with the garments and the price. That makes me sad, really sad for those who used to depend heavily on VV.
I now give to the Salvation Army or directly to those I know personally have needs, my stuff always looks brand new and that makes me feel glad for those who will walk away with what i have brought.
When my children and I fled from an abusive now ex it was the salvation army that provided the Christmas hamper for us. I did not know such a thing existed and my oldest son just happened to talk to the head of the army and told him our situation. He filled up a box with his own turkey, presents and treats and drove my son home . I cried for weeks from the kindness showed. So I will happily take our things there and have a look see what I might get for a good price.
I had to weigh in on this as I wrote a blog post about this about a month ago. VV has absolutely outgrown its britches! And something I’ve not seen anyone else mention is something I learned talking to another customer one day in VV. We were talking about the increase in prices and she had used to buy things for clients she had that needed things. She told me she complained to an associate & then the manager one day and was told that the thing she had in her hand was an antique! She quickly told them they aren’t an antique store! I’ve also overheard this conversation at Goodwill by associates, that they need to check the tags & markings on things before pricing. My take on this? Let them sell those things on ebay or such and put the prices back where people down on their luck can afford.
I’d also like to make a comment to Tom, who asked about the VV on Ontario St. in St. Catharines…..this is the store that the lady told me about the antique comment…but think you’ll find prices are pretty much the same across the board. Shop at Bibles for Missions or Christian Benefit Shop instead…..they just want to move merchandise.
Ok, so I am not the only one complaining about this. I noticed this year when it came time to my my preschooler her fall wardrobe that I couldnt find anything and that my $20 wardrobe for a season was over now. Sadly something good has turned into something bad. Good article
Great investigative post. You’ve articulated what we’ve all been feeling. I havn’t been to value village in years. As soon as jeans passed the $10 mark I was done.
I agree about the VV price shift, and its ‘for-profit’ slant. I prefer to shop at the Salvation Army, Goodwill and MCC thrift stores where I know profits will help others, AND I will get more bang for my buck. VV is still better than new in my books though, because I know I am not putting money directly into the hands of companies that use sweat-shops, and it’s just better all around to reduce and re-use.
Great post. I’ve been noticing prices creeping higher at vv. It seems especially cruel in small communities- where there are lots of seniors and folks who need help with the basics.
I try to give to charities who give directly to those in need, and I’ll try and shop there too, when I can. Found a fabulous vintage dress recently at a Salvation Army store. It was a sale day, and the dress ended up being $3! You can’t find stuff like that at vv anymore.
Also, to both Callie and Yeshanu – I’m a big gal, and the best place I’ve found that you can get beautiful clothing for Sizes 16+ is a store called Torrid. It’s only in the US (there’s nothing like that in Canada- trust me, I’ve looked everywhere). Shipping can be pricey- but they often do 50% off clearance sales, which offer huge bargains. I think they have a sale on now- be sure to check them out!
Goodwill is just about as bad. Their prices are way too high for used stuff that someone donated. Additionally, their hiring practices are criminal but because they are “Goodwill” they get away with it. My daughter who is mildly handicapped was hired at our local store. She was one in a long line of employees fired on her 89th day of employment because she was eligible for insurance benefits on her 90th day. Because of high unemployment people are willing to take these minimum wage jobs and be treated poorly.
This is a BIG profitable business. Their materials are free, they get tax breaks, their labor is dirt cheap with government subsidies to them for ‘hiring the handicapped’, and then they get off with paying no benefits.
Someone is getting rich here.
I used to live about two minutes walk from the Kelowna Value Village and shopped there about once a week. A huge portion of our clothing and housewares came from that store. About ten years ago, we noticed that we could buy new at the original retailer for about the same price VV wanted for used, stained and/or damaged. There were still a few bargains, but you could just as easily get taken. I now shop at other thrift shops because the last time I went into VV I saw nothing that I could not get cheaper any number of places, including the sale racks at Orchard Park. I don’t even bother to check anymore.
Firstly let me say I have found deals at Value Village but shop there seldom anymore for several reasons:
1: the ever increasing high prices for half worn out items is insulting
2: their whole business model-basically we are giving them their inventory for them to make money. that would be like all of us donating to Can. Tire or the Bay so they can resell it back to us.
They have been investigated many times for their misleading advertising that leaves people thinking they are donating to an non-profit org. or that Value Village supports charitible org thanks to your donations, When in fact they give less to charities than an a normal company.
In my view it’s a scam but it only works because we support them both with giving them their inventory then buying it back at more and more inflated prices. After awhile we have to help ourselves.
I try and boycott them as much as possible but admit that once in a blue moon I do go in for a quick look.
I do make sure all my donations and 99% of my business goes to other thrift stores.
I shop at V.V. all over southwestern Ontario, & my friends & I have noticed the increase in prices since 2010. However, as a plus-sized senior, I am still more likely to find something that fits, and that I like & can afford at V.V. than anywhere else. That’s because most, if not all, retail stores get their stock from third-world countries, and it’s mostly cr*p – if you’ll forgive my language. I am still likely to find garments that are made in Canada or the U.S. at V.V., because they were originally purchased before everything became “Made in China”!
Also, I never have to worry about anything shrinking, or the colour running, because it will already have been laundered several times before I get it. Even the cheapest price at Walmart is too much if the garment doesn’t stand up to laundering. And I’m a very competent laundress, so I know how to get the most wear out of my clothes.
I can say that this year was the first time I ever left a V.V. empty-handed. My friend thought I was ill! LOL I will still shop there, but I’ve just become more discriminating about what I’ll pay. In Life nothing ever stays the same, and thrift shopping is no exception. Adapting to change is what keeps me flexible in mind and body – and that’s a good thing, as Martha would say.
Although VV is for profit it does purchase clothing that was donated to not-for-profit organizations giving them much needed $. Check their policies when donating.
And, both Goodwill and Sally Anne seem expensive too – better to shop on their sale days.
I’m frequently surprised as to how expensive Value Village has gotten. I noticed that a while ago when I went to buy some pants. I ended up spending almost $20 on them, and they weren’t even that great of a brand. I probably could have bought them brand new for only a bit more.
In defence of Value Village! I consider vv the costco of used item shopping where everything is under one roof. I have just bought a coat there after driving around to find cheaper new/on sale alternatives at better known outlets. No luck. Next, I had to get boots and the same thing again. My time is precious and where else can you get a bargain on everything from sweaters to skis? I think that not all vv stores are created equal but mine here is great, clean and spacious. You just have to look around and shop often. You also get a rebate for bringing in household items for re sale.
I agree too… their prices have definitely gone up… to the point of ridiculous for some things!!
BUT… if you have a really good eye, you can still find some bargains here and there.
They do need to get their pricing more in line with the “USED” reality, and keep the VERY USED stuff off the shelves (as many have said, to even try to sell it is insulting sometimes).
I do find some of the prices at VV too high especially when one can get the same item new at a dollar store. However, in my town I have found the Goodwill more expensive for housewares, at least e.g. $2.02 for a 1L canning jar vs. $0.69 at VV.
I do agree with some of the comments above in that I do not want to frequent Walmart because of their business practices. I also want to buy used for environmental reasons. I hope these thrift stores do some rethinking of their prices, but I will still continue to shop at them and find what I consider bargains without taxing the environment by consuming new products.
Value Village receive all their merchandise free they donate 3cents a pound to the diabetes society (so I’v been told?) and promote themselves as charitable!!I do not donate nor buy there, I used to and stopped a year ago when prices started going crazy. ornaments with broken ears,hands etc. @2.99 naked barbies with ruined hair, ink over their bodies etc. 2.99.Clothing WELL USED SOME THREADBARE AT WICKED HIGH PRICES. SHOP AT SALVATION ARMY. Salvation army gives to our communities during fires, flodds etc. they sell clothing at a fraction of value village. this is an american owned company ripping off canadians. The poor can’t afford to shop there. frenchy’s are reasonable however salvation army is still the place to donate & buy. support our own.
MARGE; I AGREE WITH ALL OF ABOVE, I USED TO BE A REGULAR SHOPPER IN SYDNEY,NOVA SCOTIA. HOWEVER IN THE PAST YEAR I HAVE NOT BEEN IN THE STORE. THEY ARE OVERPRICED SELLING DOLLAR STORE ITEMS FOR $2.00 (TAGS STILL ON BOTTOM OF ITEM SHOWING DOLLARRAMA) ORNAMENTS WITH BROKEN PARTS @2.99, CLOTHING THAT IS THREADBARE,CHEAPER TO BUY NEW AT END OF SEASON SALES. RETURN POLICY IS TERRIBLE AND MOST OF THE TIME THE STAFF ARE NOT POLITE OR FRIENDLY WHEN YOU DO RETURN. THIS IS AN AMERICAN OWNED CO. WHO GIVE VERY LITTLE TO THE DIABETES SOCIETY AND ARE GOUGING THE POOR.
GIVE TO THE SALVATION ARMY, THEY HELP THE COMMUNITY IN TIME
OF NEED. PLUS THEIR IN STORE PRICES ARE GREAT. THEY ARE THERE FOR THE NEEDY. FRENCHY’S IS GREAT TOO.
THE SMELL IN THE STORE AND THE JUNK WHICH SHOULD BE PRICED AT .25 CENTS OR THROWN IN GARBAGE IS ENOUGH TO DETER ANYONE.
MARGE CAPE BRETON NOVA SCOTIA
I have had the opposite experiences at VV for the most part. I find that the value is excellent, and may even be improving. I shop there weekly, and visit a variety of value villages across the country when I travel with business.
Just like on ebay, you can find some expensively priced crap, and some incredible bargains. The people doing the pricing almost certainly upcharge desirable brands, because it’s a surer bet for profits, and it likely doesn’t dissuade brand-conscious buyers.
Generally, I skip the Gap and Tommy Hilfiger and go straight to the upscale brands. I’ve gotten Hugo Boss suits for $15, which is probably a 98% reduction. I got a Breville capuccino machine for the same price, regularly $300. At the same time, I’ve seen BNWT J. Crew leather boots for $50, which makes them the most expensive item in the store, but is still a reasonable deal. My biggest victory was a four-point wool Hudson’s Bay blanket – no holes, no stains, immaculate condition, for $8, whereas I saw the exact same blanket at The Bay the next week for $450.
This blog’s assertions are pretty ridiculous, because valuation becomes incredibly difficult in the second-hand market. Fashions change, quality varies widely, and you can never be sure that an item’s condition is acceptable to a potential buyer. Known brands offset a lot of those quality concerns, and often hold style better over the long term.
OF COURSE you can find other, better deals if you hang around sale racks, or buy everything from the dollar store, but is EVERYTHING at the gap >70% off? Value Village shoppers know there will occasionally be shoddy electronics, stained garments, and even moldy shoes, because the people sorting and pricing aren’t experts, and can’t go over everything with a fine-toothed comb. Furthermore, broken or soiled items might not even deter the customer from buying!
If you want curated, restored, or tested second hand items, that’s what pawn shops, fripperies, and antiques dealers are for, but you pay for that curation, and often dearly.
Interesting! We moved last year, and I just chalked the prices at the new store up to being in a different part of town. I wonder if there isn’t as big a disparity as I’d assumed…
My personal experience is that I’ve several times found items that were priced higher than retail and when brought to the attention of the store, they’ve reduced the prices. But for general higher pricing, yes, I wait for the 50% days too.
I’ve noticed their hike in prices for a few years in Brampton. I bought a few NEW shirts for my son at the children’s place for around $5 each….. I go to VV and see a ratty faded children’s place shirt for $7!!!! I said to the clerk I got new shirts same brand for cheaper than what you guys are selling used ones for….he said when new ownership took over they changed their pricing guide. Brand names go for more even if the article is ratty they price it by brand. When did used kids clothes cost more than a buck a piece. A great thrift shop that still sells at thrift prices is GBF in Grimbsy. They even have $5 bag days fill a bag with anything in store for $5 and these ladies stuff the bags full! I also shop at Talize they are like VV but I find better quality and better brands for slightly cheaper than VV. days of cheap thrift shopping is over unless u find the small church or volunteer run shops.
Hi Jen,
You peaked my interest when you mentioned GBF in Grimsby as I shop there all the time. You’re right….great prices and decent merchandise. It’s one of my favourite places to buy books and they even put them together by last name of author!
I had never heard of Talize but looked it up and see there’s one in Hamilton. I’m in St. Catharines now, so don’t get up that way much anymore, like I used to but I’m definitely going to check it out. I can always find an excuse to go that way with a friend, who also appreciates great thrift stores. Thanks for the tip!
I totally agree! The prices have been creeping up and up! I *almost* bought a winter coat But at $29.99 it was at the top of my price range. Better values exist at Bibles for Missions, or Salvation Army. But, I have found better housewares at Value Village all the same. Please, if you’re going to donate, please take it to Salvation Army or Bibles for Missions~! Value Village is FOR PROFIT. The only way that they will lower their prices is if we take our stuff and cash elsewhere.
Thanks Keri for the great postings with photos! I thought I was the only one thinking that Value Village prices have hit the roof.
As Dawn points out VV is FOR PROFIT. I’m for profit but when so much is donated I expect the price points to be more reflective of this.
I rather go to local hospital thrift shops, wildlife animal thrift shop and the like. My donations go to such shops (but I really hate it when I buy my own stuff back!)
Thanks for your entertaining writing.
Not just VV but Goodwill too. Insane prices. I can do better at the mall.
Small thrift stores are still the cheapest. Kijiji is great too.
Some people just truly think value village is cheap…..it isn’t.
The Salvation Army is awesome and the money goes to noble causes.
Perhaps the terrible sticker shock at VV might be better understood of everyone realizes that yes the goods they receive are indeed donated aka free to them but that VV is an American “profit” organiztion versus a non-profit like Goodwill( and I agree GW has inflated its prices beyond belief for what are donated items).Both of these are out of touch given reality is the goods they receive to sell are free to them.
Hence in reality VV is and has always been from the day it set foot in Canada, a business that operates solely for profit ( but gets to use the rules of a charity for their operating purposes).
As a result of this knowledge I have never and never will give this outfit a single penny of my money ( and the same goes for Walmart-another disgusting American business that should be banned in our country for the havoc it wreaks on local businesses)
Its not just $49.99 wool coat (men’s small), alongside the $19.99 wool coats (men’s x-large, xx-large) it is also the absence of products. For instance gloves, umbrellas, working lamps, shoes (8 1/2–just tennis shoes and soccer cleats). Things they used to have (clocks, small boxes (wood), small storage boxes (tupper ware style, warm shirts) that are never there anymore.
I’ve watched people go through the floor lamps and buying 10-15 (and still counting when I left). One man buying 10 pairs of children’s shoes that were nearly the same size.
I’ve witnessed one of the small size semi trailers being unloaded in a VV parking lot (8:30pm in a winter night’s rain as well as during a sunny spring morning) with merchandise (furniture) being set aside and picked up by people. Picked up between the trailer and the delivery door (without going through the store). In Seattle. (No raincoats in VV Seattle. Couldn’t find a winter coat to fit me in Edmonton.)
In reading all the comments I feel that there is definently a lack of ignorance. I have been working for this company 13 years and I woulD only have to agree with one comment and that is that prices have increased over the last couple years but so has the company wages to support and pay an average of 50 to 60 employees plus benefits and what retailer hasn’t had price increases? Including groceries,gas,hydro? Value village supports over 150 charities not just 1. The only items that gets shipped over sea’s is clothing that has holes n stains n doesn’t meet the avg canadian or american standards. Sorry but homeless or less fortunate need shoes too. And the opportunities for employees are endless.what other companies out there would invest in their people? Just wanted to let you know that value village pays for items sight unsee and yes there is a lot of garbage that comes with the business that can’t be recycled-disposal cost are not free.just sayin that there is a lot of overhead that comes with a business and employees that earn a paycheck-sorry folks but groceries n gas for our vehicles have also increased in price-maybe u should boycott them!
Benefits???? It’s a thrift store-most retail stores do not pay their employees benefits. All retailers have bills, they pay for brand new and clean. VV get’s good for free or pennies a bundle. Enough with the excuses.
I have only seen framed art nice enough to warrant the prices twice, and they no doubt sold quickly. I wanted unique picture frames for some art I bought-which I could not find so looked closely at the more ‘run of mill’ frames. Closest I found was not in good shape so I ended up in Walmart-Where- Same quality frames, some exact, without the crappy outdated artwork at walmart on a promo rack-half the price of VV, brand new no scuffs no broken backs…. Come on Value Village re-think. Shoes…do you want to move these items, prices way out of proportion again for out of fashion footwear, some prices gouged just for the name, they are still old and still used.
Housewares-prices have gone wayyyy up. I returned a dinner sized decorative (blue mountain pottery)plate I bought for 19.99 because VV had placed the price sticker over a chip on the back. Next time I went back-sticker was again on the same spot-14.99. Another beautiful blue glass plate I would have bought if not for the sticker price-79.99!!!! It was on the shelf forever- Probably in a store owner or Managers house.
I used to love the thrill of finding treasures at a great price. Now I don’t dream of given VV anything. Frequenting other treasure troves.
Value village has NO value or savings for consumers. They sell rubbish at high prices; higher even than Walmart, Winners and sometimes even COSTCO.
The Salvation Army on the other hand, sells at better prices and the money supports life saving charitable works – shelters, food banks, drug rehab, etc…
There are NO treasures at VV, just worn out and used trash.
BETH:
“In reading all the comments I feel that there is definently a lack of ignorance. ”
You are correct. Everyone seems to understand exactly what they mean.
Value Village must be doing something right. There are stores everywhere throughout the GTA and more and more new stores being added every year. Every time I go to shop there, the stores are usually quite busy and the checkout lines are often long (one of my few gripes).
I think people are missing out – by thinking the only benefit of such a store are low prices. But it’s more like a giant garage sale, open all year round and 12 hours a day. There are items there you just can’t buy anywhere else besides thrift stores. Old VHS tapes, records, vintage clothing (I once found a Montreal Expos t-shirt for 5.00) and other obscure goodies.
Some of the problems with the store are not their fault. For example, the toy section has a lot of broken toys but that’s mainly because they seem to have no problem allowing little kids to play with them unsupervised.
Beth…I am sure you meant there is a lot of ignorance. Otherwise you proved the whole point of post.
Ace says “Some of the problems with the store are not their fault. ”
———————————————————-
The comment above is the reason why as a hardworking consumer, I am so ticked off with this store. Its their negative attitude towards their customers that stinks. They take no responsibility for the items they sell.
Ace says the reason they sell shoddy and broken toys is because customers allow THEIR children to break them!
Oh, give ME a break! Value Village sells many dirty, shoddy and broken toys because it can; I have also seen on sale many items that have been on recall lists for years including children’s jewelry recalled for lead content and recalled electrical appliances.
If I sound harsh, I mean to! They are taking billions of dollars in from customers that believe they are being eco-friendly and price conscious. They owe their consumers some respect.
As a matter of fact I think I will make a project out of documenting the issues I have with this chain of stores and why shopping there may be hazardous to ones health.
When I shop at thrift shops is is normally for the reduced prices. And like everything and anything else I go with a budget. But my main reason for going is to reduce. reuse and recycle. Frugal living is (for me) is about cutting cost buying what I need but most of all reduce my environmental footprint of my little space called earth!
Sylvie :
I agree with you wholeheartedly! Most of what we buy, we use only a few times anyway so why not reuse someones gently used item. But I have found a few “used” things I am still using years later such as a solid teak coffee table I found for 30$.
I collected all my pottery/dishes over a period of about ten years – now I have a beautiful collection of hand-painted Denby (pieces from 1930-2000) which I use everyday. All of these things were “thrown out” as single pieces, but together they make a beautiful collection that I and others have found new value in.
Maybe my attitude towards shopping “used” is negative to manufacturing and the economy, but if companies like Walmart produced more sustainable products made to last or even paid the producers of such goods a living wage, maybe I would buy new goods instead of recycling.
But for now, I will take advantage of the tremendous amount of discarded, unwanted and ultimately quality items available and donated knowing that perhaps my money will support a good charitable endeavor.
Happy New Year to everyone!
I am going to have to disagree with the vast majority here…
While there are overpriced items at Value Village, they still have loads of great deals, and you can find much faster than at a Goodwill. Like any store, it is buyer beware.
On a recent trip to a VV in Toronto, I bought the following items, all like new –
A Nanette Lepore dress for $15 – these usually are $300-400.
A 100% silk Sandra Angellozzi blouse for $12 – these usually start at $100
A wool Banana Republic skirt for $10 – these usually are $80
A Banana Republic blazer for $12 – usually $100
PLUS I had 30% off coupon! I was there for only an hour to find these amazing deals. I spend the equivalent time at Goodwill or Salvation Army and come back empty handed.
Also – I think it IS better to spend $15 on a pair of gently used Gap jeans than $15 on a new pair. Recycle! Its better for the planet.
Also – on the “crotch” comment in the blog post – you realize that people try on new jeans at the Gap right? Your crotch isn’t the first and only crotch to inhabit even a new pair of jeans?
I do shop at VV alot, and have seen prices rise sometimes way out of line but what really gets my goat is finding jeans (St Jacobs) and wool blankets (Aberfoyle flea market) that I have been told come at least in part from VV!! What’s going on?? The amounts of these goods seem to indicate an organized effort, sort of sad when the goods have been donated in good faith.
I’m in the US. Savers is actually my favorite thrift store. Like any other thrift store, you need to watch. A lot of times things are cheaper new.
Basically what I am saying is that I don’t think that your observations are unique to Value Village. It is a widespread problem, at least at the thrift stores that I shop at.
“It’s Just Laura” likes Savers. But she should know that Savers is a for profit corporation as is Value Village and the same businesses practices apply. Kerry’s observations are the same as I have observed at Savers. Mostly way too high prices with the occasional goody. The last…and final…time I was there they had dirty glassware (complete with dried on milk) identical to the glassware at the dollar store but twice as much. I don’t support them any more as there are good alternative thrift shops in every town run by local not for profit organizations. I donate to them, give things away on Freecycle, sometimes just give to friends, and occasionally sell the really good stuff online. And the really ratty clothes become cleaning rags. Remember those?
Aside from their ridiculous prices, Value Village is deceiving the public as according to the Webster Dictionary, the definition of the word ‘donate’ is: “to make a gift of; especially : to contribute to a public or charitable cause.”
So how can a for-profit business like Value Village blatanly use the word ‘donate’ in their advertising and signage, to solicit ‘donations’ and mislead consumers to think they are helping a local charity? That ain’t right. Not only does it hurt actual charities who rely heavly on local donations, VV does nothing for needy individuals or support local community help programs.
Value Village (Savers) is a very secretive, intensly private, for-profit business that uses a charity like Canadian Diabetes Association here, as shield to hide the truth. The real story is disturbing. They are takers, not givers. Why haven’t Consumer Affairs and the Advertising Standards associations investigated this deception? And why does CDA spend more on their donation pickup program, than on diabetes research? Where is Geraldo when we need him?…. Hello CBC Marketplace? 20/20? Nightline? Anyone?
I am not a big fan of Value Village but their stuff is not cheap. I prefer to buy new clothing and have found stuff on the back racks of stores to be cheaper. Or I buy when its on sale. I think its ridiculous that a place like this charges such high prices and takes advantage of other people’s good will. In my area I prefer Salvation Army as they seem to have alot more stuff and their prices seem to be better. And for stuff that is used! Another indication that our world is ever so messed up.
Value village charges way too
much for their baseball caps
Where is Geraldo when we need him?…
———————————-
I hope you do not mean Geraldo of Rivera fame ! The great R******* money saver…
What does that man have to say about the real lives of women and how they manage to take care of themselves and their families??
Its so hard to meet the needs of a growing family today that these shops exist in the first place. But it was not long ago that it was shameful to use or wear “someone elses” possessions even if you had very little. My mother would never have gone into a church charity shop for instance (1950′s-1960′s). Thus used goods stayed really cheap back then.
But today it seen as unforgivable to waste perfectly good stuff. This change in attitude is very appealing to marketers. They know we need them, and they have started
to take advantage of good people.
When will it end?
Thanks for posting this! I was disgusted when I went to buy kids clothing for my daughter. Instead I buy kids clothes from a locally run consignment shop (in much better shape and for a way better price). We donate our used clothes to the homeless shelter and to the Society of Services which runs a local thrift shop with great prices (aka: the needy can actually afford to shop there, and the money they make goes back into the community… a double-win!) I think it’s important that people know WHO they are donating to. We specifically avoid religious groups, and anyone who makes a profit on someone’s poverty.
Yeah, I haven’t shopped at VV since I moved out of my crappy college apartment, where the only shopping I could reach was the VV at the end of the block.
Now I prefer to donate and buy from Goodwill. There are several outlets and donations centres here in Edmonton and for my needs they’re perfect. There’s a dedicated book store for when I want to expand my library, and I can regularly find a few pairs of brand new quality slacks for under $8.
Now, if only busty girls like me would start donating their cute tops…
I still find good things at VV (I’m in Oakville, ON). I originally went there for clothes for my son – in the GTA there are NO boys clothes on clearance racks at Gap/Old Navy.. and for me, a size 2, no sizes left once things are super cheap. On Sunday I went to VV’s 50% off (LOVE that they open it up on Sundays now) and got an amazing vintage lamp (working!) for $4.99 (not part of the sale), 3 tops for my son each under $3 and jeans for him for $4 that look brand new. I buy things for him when I see them even if they are larger sizes than he needs at the moment. Also LOVE the toy prices! I often take my son there when I want to treat him and he’s 4 so doesn’t care about the toys being used. I find most stuff is dirty but I clean the items and magic eraser marks off stuff and it looks brand new. I think the prices range greatly and I just stick to what I am willing to pay.
I used to work at value village in 2003 or so. Honestly one of the best jobs in terms of nice coworkers and decent managers. The prices were quite reasonable and with an employee discount they were downright insane. Pay was low but I needed a job.
I agree the prices now are just not realistic at all. Before we’d be busy as hell and people would come because they knew they’d find a few cool things at a good price. Even retro shop owners would come buy stuff to resell. Maybe Savers management saw that and thought, “shit, why don’t we charge the same price?”. The issue is you’ve now lost about 80% of your demographic. Considering the cloths are donated your cost is sorting and stocking. Anything left over after about 6 weeks was compressed into a bale and headed off for the developing world. Overall, it was something were I think everyone came away with something. These days I’d rather deal with goodwill.
I haven’t shopped at VV in a long time but went in recently looking for scrapbooking odds and ends that usually come bunched up in plastic bags. I ended up leaving without anything since they packaged bits of lace, which i did want, with sewing machine stuff that I did not want. the prices are way too high. I then went to MCC only to find that as soon as they dressed up the store, the prices also got dressed up. Don’t go there much anymore. UGM is still pretty good.
Mm Stop and think a minute, now take a deep slow breath, and realize that these “thirft stores” are acquiring this stuff for FREE! Now when I thought in these terms I want to blow my top! Sorry but I can’t shop there! For there is NO value. Don’t be buffalo!
OMG busines is business if you don’t like value village don’t go and stop your whining. Wait for your once a year sales at the big box stores. If enough people stop going maybe they will bend and lower prices.
I totally agree this past year in Vancouver and Burnaby, BC they just keep raising their prices. I went there yesterday to find a new belt for work. I found a black plastic belt, (the kind you get for free with a dress) was $6.99! It wasn’t leather or anything even had a tear in the stretch material on the back. I thought VV was to help people who were low income how can these people afford it? And I stopped dropping off my used clothing to them after I heard they only give a very small percent to helping people the rest goes to the corporation.
So glad I found your experiment article!! You are completely right, prices are out of control!!! I often see many items for 75% more than their original home @ Dollarama!!! What was a buck there, is 2-20 AT VV. We do not shop there anymore as a result of their crazy prices and the fact that they are, as Slim Pickens mentions, “…. a very secretive, intensly private, for-profit business that uses a charity like Canadian Diabetes Association here, as shield to hide the truth.” My husband used to get so wound up and almost ‘rage filled’ after leaving VV the last few times and his negative energy was contagious. What should be a pleasant experience, or so we thought, turns out to be followed by, a ..”What the heck is wrong with these people?!!!” rant all the way home and continues on from there….I too could write a book after reading this!!! Just glad to know we are not being over exaggeratedly unappreciative people. I will confess though, we have made it a sort of ‘outing’ in the cold winter months and gone to VV to simply let our toddler run around the isles and sometimes, straight to the toy section (antibacterial hand wipes in pocket)!!!!! We will buy something, if it catches our eye while observing our toddler, and even then, that is pretty rare. Sometimes, while I observe my toddler and interact with her or walk briskly down isles with her, my husband will start up conversations with others about the prices and educate them about the fact that VV is private and for profit, and then mentions all the places he knows that are non profit places to shop and find things they may need. Sometimes, he stops people right at the drop off depot area and does the same. No point in emailing them. I feel confident that they already know about their prices and it would be a waste of time. Some big wigs got to go there and do a consumer program special or something. We all know that there is a plethora of information to do so. Anyway, thank you so much for this article, I am posting URL re facebook right now!!!!
P.S Hope you enjoyed your green overalls!!!
My favourite…those silver hexagon tea light lanterns with glass sides, commonly $3.00 @vv. Also sell new, without rust @ IKEA for, wait for it….$ 2.99. I got mine for free on a promotional deal @ IKEA many years ago.
The Edmonds VV has a flour sifter for 4.99, it’s a piece if crap made in China not worth 2 bucks, but the best part is…it’s broken! It’s been on the shelf for over two weeks, I think they believe it’s vintage cause it’s styled after a vintage design. Nope not vintage, just garbage!
Clothes @ Sears liquidation are half what the are at VV & no one has worn them out for you.
That Gap vest you mentioned, got mine @ Orphan Aid on Edmonds for $5.00, down filled.
VV is complete rip off yet it’s still packed with people, what gives?
Who ever prices this company’s books and records and puts them behind the “special area” is an idiot. Scratched Beatles records for 19.99! Books that are book club edition for hundreds of dollars! Yes some book club editions are nice, but 250 bucks for a book that sells on ebay for 100!?!??!?? Get your act together Value Village and stop ripping people off.
I agree with the comments about not shopping at Walmart. Giving your business to the big W is like encouraging worker manipulation in North America as well as the rest of the world. Walmart is responsible for the bankruptcy of so many mom n pop small businesses.
There is a lot of hype around the new Target stores in Canada. I wonder if they will be any better than W-mart ( I hope so)
We have been shocked by the prices at Value Village too. We wander through from time to time, more than half expecting to not get anything because of those ridiculous prices.
Sometimes, though, like with your cute green kiddo overalls, we do find a bargain. I rescue Barbie dolls, some for my own collection, some for my little granddaughter who is just starting hers, other to clean up and give away…but the thing is even at Value Village’s odd pricing, to find the older dolls at all is great! And at anything under $20 is all the better. I once found a #2 Barbie for $3.99! Granted she was in need of clothes, but some of these particular dolls go for hundreds of dollars!
My roomie is into manga and anime, or the Japanese books like Naruto, Black Butler, Samurai Champloo. These can sometimes be found for the price of children’s books, while they retail at $10.99 or more. And many of them are no longer available.
There is the “thrill of the hunt”…but Savers/Value Village needs to keep in mind they ARE a thrift store!
Thanks for the well done article!
Value Village does nothing more then gouge customers. They do not give anything to Diabetes Association. The truth is they BUY the product from them. So its tit for tat. How are they donating anything. They are not. i have found a GREAT thrift store in Oshawa. Star Thrift store. Rumor has it that an ex value village executive started it. he got sick of Value Village and its attitude. Terrible customer service. Its located at 200 John st W in Midtown mall beside the dollarama. Lower prices, quality items, doesn’t stink like most thrift stores and the employees are kind and thoughtful. I suggest you check it out. They are in need of your donations and they support the CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY. 905-728-8365
Absolutely excellent article and comments.
Now, I know my local Value Village employees kids and probably lots of first timers in the work force. And I do still find the odd deal on a book or hobby item.
But donating to Value Village: NO WAY!
The thing that so sticks in my craw … Tom Ellison, owner, bought this waterfront mansion:
“This landmark compound, “Harmony,” sold in 2012 for $21.6 million. This was the most expensive LW Map of the Stars® waterfront sale in 2012. It was listed at $26.9 million … From the listing: “Resting gently on 2.93 acres, Harmony commands an extraordinary 324 feet of Lake Washington waterfront and sets its vista on the Seattle skyline and Mount Rainier . . . Waves roll gently up on the beach as the sun shines down on two private docks. . . [nearly 20,000 square feet in 4 buildings]. . living wing plays host to the grotto, saline pool and exercise areas. Upstairs two guest suites each with their own bath and walk-in closets . . . private outdoor spa . . . A world like no other.” The listing was featured in a 3/20/11 Seattle Mansions Blog. The seller was Marsha Stroum Sloan Glazer. The buyer was THOMAS ELLISON, the principal owner of the Value-Village/Savers chain of stores.”
You have to be kidding me.
The man is making a killing on other peoples’ ignorance.
Its literally highway robbery.
Mind, I need the exercise, so I’ll still walk there, especially in the winter, for a warm pit stop.
Again, great site, article and posts.
Pretty sure you mean “gouged”, not gsuged?
I agree, btw. VV is mostly overpriced.
I agree that the prices are terrible! This seems to be consistent with other big name thrift stores like Salvation Army and Goodwill (Have to wonder how they get away with making money SO MUCH MONEY off of merchandise that is donated AND delivered for free!)
The prices are generally high but there are things you just have to stop and laugh at. I think this is partially because employees are sifting through so many items that they can’t pay enough attention to properly price merchandise. Pieces are grouped into general categories and priced accordingly. For example, the other day I found a pair of 7 for all mankind jeans for $9.99 (Retail $200+) beside a pair of George jeans for the same price (Retail $14.99).
Having said that, I am still a huge thrift store advocate and have been able to consistently find good deals. I would, however, like to mention that there are plenty of amazing thrift stores that are 100% charity centered and have amazing prices, if you live in the brampton/georgetown area, you should check out the UCHS thrift store located in Moore Park plaza – Georgetown. Fantastic items, dirt cheap prices and friendly staff. Pet friendly!
It’s not just the prices, either. The customer service at ours is terrible. When I told a cashier that I didn’t understand the cards they gave out and thought they were a waste, she got very snarky with me. Not that she was friendly before. LOL