A Gen Z perspective on charity shopping by J R Diprose
Thrifting has recently become a new sensation for my generation. Although it is difficult to pinpoint exactly where it began. Post-Covid 19 we Gen Zers (also referred to as ‘Zoomers’) have become involved in the charity shop scene. Whether its hauls on TikTok of excellent finds or Instagram posts of upcycled products, we adolescents have become fond of our local charity retailers.
But what is it that has got us so involved?
I can assure you that it isn’t just a flash in the pan trend that will fizzle out. Factors such as the ‘cost of living crisis’ and global warming are on our radar, and the local charity shop is an excellent accommodation to both. Often, what is donated to charity shops comes from older adults, who kindly give their goods and we adolescents can access quality produce for low prices. For a small fee you can receive what you need to start a new home or wardrobe, without having a large impact on the environment.
Furthermore, it’s an easy way to have a positive impact on the community. Generation Z are now in their late teens and early adulthood. Being able to donate financially to charitable causes may not be an option. When you access your local charity retailer, you’re getting your cake and eating it too. You contribute something good into the world without having to lose too much from your own needs, whether it’s buying a nice shirt for an interview or donating those old ‘totally-not-a-phase’ clothes from being fourteen years old.
Most of all, the charity retail scene is fun. Stores are often large enough to provide the space to peruse a plethora of memorabilia whilst getting involved in the local community. It is hard to resist the opportunity to ‘help out and be out’.
