In a very revealing turn of affairs, Goodwill, the cornerstone of charitable clothes retailers, is closing many locations and laying off many of its dependent staff.
The concept of community service was crucial to the establishment of the thrift store chain. By accepting high-quality gifts, they may employ the disabled, veterans, and others in need. It was established as a non-profit organization completely dedicated to doing good.
However, the economy in the United States is changing dramatically and has been for several years. People’s wallets are tighter than ever, and they don’t donate as much to Goodwill as they used to. Rather than donate their unwanted clothing to thrift stores, folks are reselling stuff to pay their bills. The age of abundance has ended.
Along with a decrease in donations, retailers like Goodwill face increased costs and overhead. The shop’s low-priced merchandise simply makes it impossible to pay the personnel a living wage. Overhead costs, such as power and rent, are also higher than they have ever been.
As a result, customers have observed that thrift retailers such as Goodwill have raised their pricing. Now, it’s really cheaper to buy ‘quick fashion’ for your clothes, import from abroad, or simply go to a superstore like Walmart for the rest. Goodwill is no longer the cheapest choice.
Their business approach was not able to withstand the US recession. As a result, Goodwill is forced to close many facilities and lay off employees in California.
13 Goodwill Locations Set To Shut Up Shop
According to KRON4, 13 Goodwill stores will close permanently in California. The list includes four Bay Area businesses and six donation locations. Along with this, Goodwill will close two regional headquarters and an Oakland warehouse.
Hundreds of workers will lose their employment as a result of the closures. However, we encourage all of them to apply for new positions in other stores and locations. However, this solution may not be the best option for many individuals. Goodwill has always prioritized disabled hires as well as veterans. Often, they are unable to uproot and relocate.
