Thrift stores boom as Twin Cities shoppers seek savings
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Illustration: Annelise Capossela/Axios
Twin Cities shoppers looking for savings and sustainability have lots of options thanks to the metro's thriving thrift store scene.
Why it matters: Buying second hand is an easy way to reduce shopping sticker shock without sacrificing quality or style.
State of the racks: Cost concerns related to inflation, President Trump's shifting tariff targets, supply chain issues and broader economic uncertainty are driving an uptick in business at thrift and consignment stores across the country.
What they're saying: While resale does well all the time, "it does even better during an economic turn down," Adele Meyer, executive director of the National Association of Resale Professionals, told Axios.
Case in point: Tom Canfield, who oversees local Salvation Army thrift stores, told WCCO last month that the retailer has seen an increase in foot traffic this year.
- "Shoppers are more savvy, and that's one of the reasons why we do so well," said Canfield, who plans to open five more stores in the metro in the next five years.
Reality check: The popularity of secondhand shopping was on the rise before the onset of trade wars sent shockwaves through the economy.
Zoom in: 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%).
What we're watching: Monday's announcement that the U.S. and China will slash tariff rates for 90 days could trigger a surge in ordering activity by U.S. businesses, as companies that held off due to the high tariffs rush to restock inventory.
- But disruptions in global shipping could still impact retail supply — and prices — in the weeks ahead.
🛍️ Bonus: Three thrift stores to check out
Here are three of our favorite under-the-radar independent spots to thrift in the Twin Cities:
🐈 Nine Lives Thrift (1165 7th St W, St. Paul): Though it's only been open for less than a year, this bright, cheery and cat-themed West Seventh shop quickly became a top pick for unique modern and vintage clothing for all.
- Open Wednesday-Sunday, hours vary. Bonus: You may get to see shop dog Reba!
🏫 Old School (1901 Nicollet Ave, Minneapolis): The long-running nonprofit near downtown Minneapolis is an ideal stop for wacky items, home goods, books and clothing — and with most items under $10, it's one of the cheapest spots in the Cities.
- Open Wednesday-Sunday 11am-5pm. Our tip: Don't sleep on the jewelry section, it's the best in town.
🫶 Shop for Change (inside PRISM at 1220 Zane Ave N, Golden Valley): With sales benefiting Golden Valley housing + food nonprofit PRISM, this store is known for its high-quality clothing, accessories, art and housewares for reasonable prices.
- Open Monday-Saturday, hours vary. Plus: There's always a tag sale for 50% off!
📲 Take a peek inside these gems via the @AxiosTwinCities Instagram.