Second-hand reseller Jordan Lee, known online as @thecarbootguy, has stopped visiting charity shops due to what he describes as 'sad' price increases that make them 'not worth visiting.' In an Instagram post, Lee stated he rarely enters charity shops anymore, particularly large chains, because of the cost hikes.
'I honestly don't go into charity shops as much anymore - especially the big, well-known chains - simply because of the prices,' Lee said. He added that whether people are reselling or looking for personal bargains, 'it sometimes feels like the whole point has been lost.'
Resale Platforms Offer Cheaper Alternatives
Lee argued that on platforms like Vinted, consumers can often find identical brands in excellent condition for significantly less than charity shop prices. 'I've even seen things in charity shops priced higher than they would be brand new in the actual high street store!' he declared.
While acknowledging that charities need to raise funds, Lee questioned whether pricing out customers is the right approach: 'I completely understand charities need to raise funds, but surely out pricing your customers isn't the way?'
Mixed Reactions from Supporters
Lee's followers had mixed responses. 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 said, '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 noted, '£24 for an H&M jacket is robbery, although I would pay, seeing that the money goes to a Hospice.'
However, some backed Lee's position, contending that charity shops are pricing merchandise too steeply. One user stated, '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.'
