the state of the economy, the environment, or just the want to get a deal.
Charity stores are becoming more and more popular in Northern Ireland for a variety of reasons.
A County Tyrone establishment has recorded a 25% increase in sales, and donations have increased by nearly 33% compared to the previous year.
According to Stephen Brown of Cookstown's Drop Inn store, people's opinions about buying at charity stores are evolving.
"I think the stigma around charity shops has faded over the last few years."
"There's a shift happening in the charity shops; they're becoming more fashion-focused, and there are more people interested in recycling and reusing clothes."Mr. Brown added that people's purchasing habits have been affected by the issue in the cost of living.
"I gather from our patrons that the necessity for charity stores arises from the fact that living expenses are becoming more and more expensive, leaving them with less money for even necessities," he continued.
Thus, the fact that individuals can spend £3 on a top here instead of going to another store and paying much more, has a significant impact on their weekly expenses.This week, when a purported charity "superstore" opened in one of County Down's wealthiest neighbourhoods, there were long lines stretching around the block.
The Oxfam store in Holywood is seven times larger than the organization's current location in the community.
Nine further charity stores are in the area.
Among the masses eager to learn something almost fresh was Katie Lewis.
"Everyone has joined the movement to stop purchasing new clothes and fast fashion. Shopping for used clothing is becoming increasingly popular, the speaker stated.
"I enjoy owning used items, and it's a great added bonus that you're also helping a charitable organisation."The management of the new store in Holywood are all women and when it opened on Wednesday so were the vast majority of customers.
Fiona Anderson, manager of the 6,500m sqm (7,000 sq ft) store, said she hoped to change the perception of charity shopping among people who may be reluctant to buy second-hand goods and clothing.
She said the area was now a "destination for charity shopping".
"Young people have been the biggest growth area for us and after lockdown I think a lot of us reviewed what was important to us and how we wanted to shop and consume, and the clothes we wear – we want to be more accountable," Ms Anderson added.
“My goal – as much as it is to raise money for the cause - is that we want to get people feeling proud to be wearing something second-hand."
Nicola Lyden, manager of Cancer Research UK on High Street in Holywood said she hoped to benefit from a knock on effect.
“Our shop is here 33 years. What I would say to people is ‘don’t forget us’. And hopefully there’s enough for us all here," she said.
“Young people are really embracing charity shops now. Young people are driving it. It’s about sustainability. It’s good to see. Long may it last.”Back in Cookstown, fifty miles distant, there are four charity stores in a row.
Another sizable establishment is housed in a former auto dealership.
Working at the Marie Curie charity shop, Niamh Grevatt has observed an increase in sales.
"People from a variety of backgrounds, including youngsters, young teens, and our target demographic—which is often retirement age—have clearly observed an increase in foot traffic, which would still be our main source of foot traffic,” Niamh stated.
"We rely on positive word-of-mouth, and people know they'll get a good deal and that the clothes here are clean at charitable prices—that's what matters to people right now."Richard Ramsey, the chief economist at Ulster Bank, said there was now “more sophistication” in the running of charity shops.
“They’re adapting to the cost-of-living crisis, and particularly to younger people who are more into recycling and sustainability of their purchases," he said.
Charity shops do not have to pay business rates in Northern Ireland which helps to explain why more are being opened.
"In some ways it’s a sign of stress on the high street but it’s better to have a charity shop than an empty unit," he said.