New or Used – What’s Bedford Thinking

May 26, 2023

There is a story in the Washington Post about the growing trend of buying “used” instead of new. The story states, “In the past year, roughly half of Americans have bought used clothing, and they expect this trend to continue.”  (Why you should buy everything used, Washington Post – May 23, 2023, Advice by Michael J. Coren)

“For one month, I set out to buy everything I needed used and online. A wooden train set for my son? eBay. Salad tongs? Mercari. Fishing rod? Goodwill. Running shoes? Amazon Warehouse.”

The trend of buying used has many factors. The environmental impact of not buying new is a big driver. Also, the cost saving is another large factor. Finally, technology is playing a big role in the movement. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making the process of sorting and pricing and selling used much more efficient.  

Locally, there are many options: Bedford Marketplace on Facebook as well as Craigslist, and then there is one of Bedford’s hidden gems, WearOvers.

I shared this story with Vanessa, the owner of WearOvers. She said it was all true about the needs, but was a little worried about the mass merchandising of used clothes and how it could affect small consignment shops like hers. She did laugh at the AI. “I have an army of ‘old timers’ helping me out at the shop. We are so ‘not AI,’ unless AI wears cheater glasses.”

Take the poll, what’s going on in your house?

So What’s Bedford Thinking? Are you buying more used stuff today than you ever did before?

  • No (68%, 65 Votes)
  • Yes (32%, 30 Votes)

Total Voters: 95

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