Charity shops as second‐hand markets

Abstract

theories.1 This paper attempts to show that charity shops serve as difficult cases for theories of consumption. Charity shops are different in a number of ways. First, they are staffed predominantly by unpaid volunteers.2,3 Secondly, their motivation for 'profit' is tempered by their objectives: profit for charitable work rather than other forms of consumption and investment; and by their working practices: co-ordinating the supply of affordable goods, recycling and supporting volunteers (for ethical rather than pragmatic reasons). Thirdly, they differ from many other 'high street shops' because they sell second-hand goods. Their products come not from producers, but from consumers. Because these goods are donated, it is relatively difficult for charity shops to influence the level and nature of supply. With the exception of superstores, charity shops are also by far the least 'specialised' shops in the high street. By contrast, other kinds of second-hand shops (dealing in books, records or electrical equipment) are relatively specialised. In consequence, the pattern of shop work is also significantly different. Finally, the status of charity shops 'on the high street' is interesting in itself. Charity shops are neither the only ones dealing in secondhand goods nor the only second-hand markets constituted for charitable purposes. Nonetheless, they are the only shops likely to be found sharing locations with other high status chains. This paper focuses on what makes Edmund Chattoe is a junior lecturer in the Department of Sociology at the University of Oxford and Review Editor of JASSS (The

The effect of “socially moral” purchases on future financial donations

“…We recommend scholars work with large organizations that have both fundraising and earned income revenue to test whether moral reinforcement or moral licensing effects exist in different circumstances. Organizations that operate thrift stores or charity shops might be a good place to conduct such research (Chattoe, ).…”

Exploring the barriers that influence intention to donate and role of the charity shop within the multi-tier supply chain

“…A comprehensive and direct mission statement helps to attract loyal customers (Dermol and Sirca, 2018). People are donating to charity shops in increasing numbers because of the growing interest in promoting reuse and the environmental and ethical benefits (Parsons and Broadbridge, 2004; Chattoe, 2000). Due to a lack of information from charity shops, people are more likely to donate to the shop that is closest or most convenient.…”

Charity flea markets – an amalgamation of product philanthropy and volunteering

“…Many NPOs operate charity shops, jumble sales or flea markets in favor of local causes and interests. They collect donations of (used) goods, resell them at a good price, and use the proceeds to finance their services and support their missions (Chattoe 2000;Gray 2007;Horne and Maddrell 2002;Mitchell et al 2009). Such contributions of personal items are increasingly important to many NPOs.…”

“…Charity shops have unique cost and price setting particularities. Such stores are different to "high street shops" in several ways (Chattoe 2000 and/or tax relief. & Further features relate to the store's overall objectives, as profit is just a means of facilitating charitable work, and the identities of their customers; many customers favor low prices, the possibility of bargains, and browsing through the shop's choice.…”

“…With the assistance of volunteers, NPOs generate cash by reselling in-kind donations from both individuals and corporations. Existing academic literature on second-hand markets in general and flea markets in particular is sparse, too (Chattoe 2000;Hansson and Brembeck 2015;Mitchell et al 2009;Sherry Jr 1990a).…”