For many years I have been a regular patron and donor of the Goodwill. Unfortunately, I will not be shopping or donating there anymore. Why? Everyone knows the prices have increased significantly. I purchased a lot of off-the-rack items in the past like trinkets, art, and furniture, but stopped because of the high prices. Every now and then I would find something I liked on the racks like placemats, napkins, curtains, etc. These prices were always set in stone so I was good with that. Sadly, this too has come to an end because the rack items are now being priced individually, and the tag is often wrong and always overpriced. If you look carefully at the new-styled barcoded price tags, the description of the item often does not match the item being sold. This is done so the Goodwill can upcharge an item that usually has a lower set price. Most often customers won't notice because the print is so small. The Goodwill has become so dishonest and manipulative. They seek every slimy way possible to squeeze an extra dollar out of donated items. They are not transparent with their pricing and are incorrectly using a barcode system to swindle the customer. Ethics and integrity do not matter to them. They have eliminated senior day. They have eliminated one dollar items. They don't test electronic items before selling them. They remove discounted colored priced items from the shelves to avoid offering a discount, but continue to market color days. They have eliminated vintage items although their loudspeaker continues to tout them. Now they are falsely pricing items to overcharge less astute customers. It has become an awful experience to shop there. You leave feeling conned, frustrated, and angry. It's a complete waste of time and gas to even go there. My area of town in Houston is full of other thrift shops. Compared to the Goodwill, they are much cleaner, friendlier, honest, transparent, overall more affordable, accommodating, they have a great selection, and are fun. These are all places I love and regularly visit, and I will continue to do so. Even shopping on Facebook is a better experience. I no longer have the Will to do any Good for dishonest businesses like the Goodwill. read more
