Insane price for a pair of pants at a Brisbane Vinnies highlights the cost-of-living crisis in Australia
An Australian shopper has sparked a debate about the rising cost of living after discovering a pair of trousers at a high price in a store.
The customer was furious when he found a pair of plain red trousers in a Vinnies store in Brisbane with an asking price of $25.
'Australia is in the middle of it [a] housing crisis and cost of living crisis,” she wrote on Reddit alongside a photo of the item.
“More and more families are struggling and in need, yet these so-called 'charities' are anything but charitable with their ridiculous price increases.”
A disgruntled customer posted online about finding a pair of trousers in a Vinnies charity shop with an asking price of $25
The irate customer then explained that the stock is donated for free, while adding that staff are often deployed on a voluntary basis.
“I understand that these businesses have to pay rent and utilities, but the price increases are still too high,” she said.
'They are charities and not private for-profit stores!'
The post sparked differing opinions online, with some agreeing that the cost of clothes in op stores had skyrocketed.
“I've seen clothes from Kmart, Shein etc selling for more at Vinnies, used, than they cost new,” one shopper wrote.
It's ridiculous,” said another.
“I know they have to make a profit to help people with lower incomes, and I don't have a problem with that, but it's not just for that either.
'As if we are all having a hard time, and that kind of price gouging is a bit of a p***'
The customer pointed out that “families are struggling and in need, but these so-called 'charitable organizations' are anything but charitable with their ridiculous price increases.”
A spokesperson for St Vincent De Paul said prices in Vinnies stores were determined by affordability for customers and by the quality of the goods on sale (stock image pictured)
However, some took to the comments section to defend charity shops.
“When you buy something from the op shop, it's you supporting Vinnies and their charity activities, but THEY don't support you and your lifestyle,” one person claimed.
“They are NOT there to provide you with cheap clothes,” said another, while others pointed out that increasing overhead costs were the reason for the rising price tags.
A spokesperson for St Vincent de Paul said prices in Vinnies stores were determined by affordability for customers and by the quality of the goods on sale.
“Our stores use a simple price guide, based on research into the value on the general second-hand market and the quality of the garment,” the spokesperson said. Yahoo News.
'The main aim of Vinnies Shops is to raise much-needed funds for the many services of the St Vincent de Paul Society for people in disadvantaged situations'.
“These include homelessness services, domestic and family violence shelters, health services, disability services and the work of our members in communities delivering food, clothing and daily essentials to those in need.”