Used Merchandise Stores

Used Merchandise Stores

Brief Excerpt from Industry Overview Chapter:

Companies in this industry sell used merchandise such as clothing, antiques, furniture, books, and jewelry. Major companies include Goodwill, The Salvation Army, Savers, and Winmark (all based in the US), Bookoff (Japan), and Oxfam (UK).

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demographics, consumer income, and consumer tastes drive demand. The profitability of individual companies depends on efficient procurement and effective merchandising. Large companies have advantages in marketing and finance. Small companies can compete effectively by offering specialty products, serving a local market, or providing superior customer service. The US industry is fragmented: the 50 largest US companies account for about 30% of sales.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

Major products include used clothing, footwear, and accessories (about half of sales), used books (about 15%), and used furniture, appliances, and other home furnishings (about 10%). Other products include antiques and home entertainment and recreation items.