Affordability is more than a buzzword — it’s a necessity. Consumers want quality products at prices that fit their budgets. Winmark’s family of resale brands, including Once Upon a Child, Plato’s Closet, Play It Again Sports, Style Encore and Music Go Round, meets this demand by offering value-driven shopping experiences across apparel, sporting goods, musical instruments, and more.
Why Rising Apparel Prices Are Driving Resale Growth
Clothing costs have surged dramatically. According to the 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics Consumer Price Index, apparel prices have outpaced other consumer goods over the past five years. What cost $100 in 2020 now costs $132 — a 32% increase!
This trend is fueling a shift toward secondhand shopping, as consumers seek affordable alternatives without sacrificing quality.
Resale Is Reshaping the Shopping Economy
Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge toward recycled and sustainable fashion. They want their dollars to make an impact — supporting businesses that care about community and the environment.
For over 35 years, Winmark has perfected a franchise model that:
- Meets today’s demand for affordable, quality goods
- Reduces environmental impact by keeping billions of items out of landfills
- Builds strong local communities
Our stores offer what shoppers want most:
- Top youth and adult clothing brands
- Children’s apparel and gear
- Men’s and women’s fashion
- Musical instruments and equipment
- Sporting goods for every season
And here’s what sets Winmark apart: we pay customers cash on the spot for gently used items, helping families save money while keeping billions of items out of landfills and our oceans.
A Franchise Model Built for Success
Winmark’s retail stores are 100% franchisee-owned, a rarity in the industry. This structure allows us to focus entirely on supporting our franchise partners with:
- A reputation as the largest resale franchisor in North America
- Over three decades of proven success
- Comprehensive training and ongoing support
- Proprietary POS software for accurate pricing
- Cloud-based reporting for real-time insights
- A robust infrastructure for growth and expansion
Our commitment shows: 98.7% of franchisees renew after 10 years, and many expand to multiple locations.
Why Resale Franchises Are the Future
Resale and recycling aren’t trends — they’re a movement. From vintage fashion to repurposed furniture, reuse is here to stay. Winmark leads this movement with brands that deliver value, sustainability, and community impact.
We’re already serving curious, motivated, value-driven shoppers with resale items that make their lives better. Our brands do more than just resell stuff; we make a global impact on the environment and help our customers by paying cash for their used items.
If you’re ready to own a business that aligns with consumer demand and environmental responsibility, seize the opportunity to join a thriving franchise category with Winmark.