Rough Economy Has People Selling Possessions For Cash

  When the going gets tough, Rob Kinney’s motto gets plenty of attention.  “Let’s make a deal,“ he says while watching customers walk into his Plato’s Closet store in Greenville.  The shop is full of customers lately, all with tight wallets.  Business at Plato’s is up at least 30 % over last year.  “We’re one of the few businesses that really improves when the economy struggles.“

  For stores like this Kinney’s, that means selling and buying.  Customers short on cash can bring their clothes to Kinney’s closet, and hope to make a quick buck.  The tough economy is forcing first-time sellers like Linda Jack to get rid of what she can.  “Money is very tight right now, any opportunity to get extra cash in my pocket is great,“ Jack says.  Unlike some stores, Plato’s gives cash right on the spot.  A pair of shorts Jacks brought in will earn her $5.these shorts will get the seller 5 bucks.“  When times are tight, the money goes a long way.  “it’s 26 bucks more for gas,“ she says.

  Business is booming so much that Kinney might have to expand his store soon.  He knows as long as people struggle, bargain might be the best business in town.  “I’m optimistic at this point,“ he says.