Lincoln thrift stores seeing more customers amid economic uncertainty

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — With uncertainty surrounding the economy, saving money is heavy on the minds of consumers.

As some prices rise, more and more shoppers are turning to secondhand stores rather than big name brands.

“You can save a whole lot of money and find really high-quality stuff by shopping at a thrift store,” said Cece Robinson, owner of Transformations Thrift Store at 14th and B streets.

Robinson said she has noticed a rise in customer numbers.

“People do stop in here,” she said. “Sometimes they don’t find what they’re looking for, and they still end up going to a larger store. But I hear more and more people saying, ‘I thought I’d come check here first before I go there,’, so I do see an increase in that interest.”

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According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the economy shrank by 0.2% in the first quarter of 2025.

This contributes to customers’ fears, according to Kathy Herr, one of the managers at Bud’s Thrift Shoppe near 23rd and O streets.

She said Bud’s is seeing an increase in customers because of the economy and also because people don’t want items to go to waste.

“People are finding the recycling trend is really important, especially when they’re trying to find clothing for themselves and their families,” Herr said. “Even furnishing homes or apartments.”

And Herr said saving money is the ultimate brag for customers.

“People are very proud of what they buy,” she said. “They’re proud of what they saved, they’re proud of saying, ‘I got this Kate Spade purse for $40 instead of $240.'”