Thrift stores boom as Indy shoppers seek savings

What they're saying: While resale does well all the time, "it does even better during an economic [downturn]," Adele Meyer, executive director of the National Association of Resale Professionals, told Axios.

By the numbers: The popularity of secondhand shopping was already on the rise before the tariffs.

• A 2024 Recommerce Report from OfferUp found that 35% of shoppers embarked on their first resale journey in the past year — an 8% year-over-year increase.
• A majority of shoppers said they turned to resale due to increased cost of living (58%) or cost savings compared to buying new (53%).
• 55% growth is projected for the re-commerce market by 2029, reaching $291.6 billion, with resale expected to account for 8% of total retail, even without the tariff impact.

What we're watching: OfferUp, a peer-to-peer marketplace mostly for local goods, expects to see an uptick in secondhand buying in categories where tariffs may significantly impact retail supply, Ken Murphy, the company's chief innovation officer, told Axios.

• "We've seen that when supply chain disruptions occur and popular items become more scarce, people often turn toward secondhand options to get what they need at prices they can afford," Murphy said.
• "Consumers want to stretch their budgets without sacrificing quality."

Case in point: Dustin Abernathy, who says he has become a regular Offerup and thrift store shopper this year, is finding treasure in the form of gently used electronics like gaming peripherals and computer monitors.

• "The big companies are doing price hikes and adding what feels like a tariff premium on new products, so I'm looking for older, quality stuff that won't be subject to that kind of game," he said.

Zoom in: Jerrica Morris, a frequent thifter, says some of her favorite local spots include Zodiac Vintage, Naptown Thrift and Broad Ripple Vintage.

• "I get to shop more and spend less. It also keeps me from dressing like everyone else," she said. "It's fun to dig for deals and put together creative outfits."

🛍️ Bonus: Thrifting for a good cause

Getting thrifty isn't just about saving cash. It can also be about saving lives.

Between the lines: The Indianapolis metro is full of secondhand shops that give back to the community with every ring of the cash register.

• Here are five spots to check out if you're interested in thrifting or donating to a good cause.

Thrifty Threads: Locations at 1501 W. 86th St. and 8424 Castleton Corner Dr.

• Operated by The Julian Center, which helps victims of domestic violence and abuse start fresh. Center clients can shop Thrifty Threads' selection of clothes, home goods and furniture for free.

• Open for shopping 10am-6pm Monday-Saturday.
• Open for donations 10am-5pm Monday-Saturday.

Mission27 Resale: Locations at 132 Leota St. and 1618 Shelby St.

• Goods bought at Mission27 support SVdP Indy's food pantry and Changing Lives Forever program. The latter gives community members in need the chance to undergo skills training and mentorship to continue their education and secure stable employment.
• Leota Street is open 10am-6pm Monday-Friday and 9am-5pm Saturday.
• Shelby Street is open 10am-6pm Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm Saturday and 11am-4pm Sunday.

Wheeler Mission Store: 8640 E. 96th St., Fishers.

• Proceeds from the massive collection of clothing and household items sold have been providing meals, job training, life skills and shelter for guests of Wheeler Mission since 2007.
• Open 9am-8pm Monday-Friday, and 10am-6pm Saturday.

The ReStore: Locations at 4129 W. Washington St.; 7998 Centerpoint Dr., Fishers; 1141 W. U.S. 40, Greenfield and 1099 N. Avon Ave., Avon.

• This network of four home improvement thrift stores sells merchandise to benefit Greater Indy Habitat for Humanity.
• Open 10am-6pm Monday-Saturday.

Grace Thrift Store: 5504 E. 146th St., Noblesville. Enter via door 18 within the Grace Church campus.

• All proceeds directly benefit Grace Care Center services and programs, including supplying food for up to 1,000 families each week through the Choice Food Pantry.
• Open 10am-2pm Sunday-Wednesday, and 6am-8pm Monday and Tuesday.

📬 We want to know: What is your favorite place for secondhand shopping in Indy? And if you don't have a go-to spot, what is the coolest thing you've found while thrifting? Email us at [email protected] to share your finds!