Budget-strapped back-to-school shoppers can find value at Goodwill NCW

Budget-strapped back-to-school shoppers can find value at Goodwill NCW

Consumers can stay on budget year-round at Goodwill NCW

NORTH CENTRAL WISCONSIN – Getting an early jump on back-to-school shopping continues to be a trend in north central Wisconsin and nationwide. According to an annual survey from the National Retail Federation and Proper Insights, 62% of back-to-school shoppers started their shopping in early July.  Still, many consumers (46%) are still waiting for the “best deals” as affordability remains a top concern. 

“Goodwill NCW has back-to-school items at a fraction of the cost, helping families stretch their dollar even more with every visit”, said Julie Deming, Vice President of Retail Store Operations at Goodwill NCW. “At Goodwill NCW, you’ll find new-to-you clothing, school supplies or even furniture and dorm essentials every day,  keeping you on budget.”

According to the survey, families with students in elementary through high school plan to spend an average of $863.86 on clothing, shoes, school supplies and electronics. Total spending is expected to rise to $43.3 billion, significantly up from $39.4 billion last year. Additional findings from the survey include:

• K-12 shoppers are budgeting $293.11 on average for electronics, $250.29 for clothing and accessories, $174.01 for shoes and $146.45 for school supplies.
• The top three categories for college spending include electronics, dorm or apartment furnishings and clothing and accessories.
• Overall, college students and their families are planning to spend a record of $103.5 billion on back-to-school shopping this year.

Shopping secondhand can make a big difference for families looking for value.

Budget-friendly tips at Goodwill NCW

• Shop often, new donations are added to the store shelves daily. Frequency and quick decision-making can pay off for finding one-of-a-kind treasures.
• Search beyond clothing. Check the aisles for belts, purses, backpacks, dorm-room essentials, shoes, desk decor, blankets and more.
• Shop donated items with the color tag of the week, they are 50% off of the ticketed price.
• Join Goodwill NCW’s Good Points program and earn rewards for shopping.

Teachers looking to prepare for the school year will also find savings at Goodwill NCW. August fourth through August seventh, teachers who spend $30 or more will receive five dollars off their purchase for Goodwill NCW’s Teacher Appreciation Days.  Details can be found here: https://goodwillncw.org/august/#teacher-appreciation

###

About Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (Goodwill NCW)

Goodwill NCW is a nonprofit organization with a mission of Elevating People by Eliminating Barriers to Employment. We provide pathways to those underserved, underrepresented or disadvantaged who have a goal of building job skills that lead to sustained employment and improved financial stability. We see people for who they are and believe in the power of work, within our retail stores and workplaces throughout our community. We are proud of the life-changing impact we make in our communities and to our planet with the help of our donors and shoppers. Learn more at goodwillncw.org