Epilepsy Foundation Op shop Hastings

“I visited this op shop last week hoping to find some snow gear. Unfortunately, I couldn't find any, but I did come across a Rip Curl belt that I really liked. It was priced at $9. Personally, I thought that was a little expensive considering the belt wasn't in the best condition, so I decided to leave it and told myself that if I was still thinking about it a week later and it was still there, I'd buy it. I went back today looking for a duffel bag. I didn't find one, but I noticed the same Rip Curl belt was still there. I grabbed it and took it to the counter. The staff member couldn't find the price tag, so she took it to the manager. Instead of honouring the price it had been marked at the previous week, they increased it by $6 and wanted to charge me $15. I explained that I had been in the week before and had seen that exact same belt priced at $9. I also pointed out that the other belts in the store were all around the $9–$10 mark. I was told that because it was a Rip Curl belt and considered "vintage," that was why they had increased the price to $15. I found this really frustrating, especially considering I had personally seen the exact same belt priced at $9 only a week earlier. What made it even more disappointing is that the belt wasn't in great condition. The backing was starting to come away, and there was visible wear on the front. For a second-hand item in that condition, I found the new price completely unreasonable. Just because something is a recognised or older brand doesn't automatically justify increasing the price. An op shop isn't a vintage boutique. Many of your ordinary second-hand tops are already priced around $7–$10, which I also think is excessive. I understand op shops have operating costs, but the clothing and goods you sell have been donated to you at no cost. The purpose of an op shop is to provide affordable second-hand items to the community while supporting a good cause. When prices are pushed this high simply because of a brand name, it defeats the purpose and makes it much harder for people who rely on op shops to find affordable clothing. I've heard over a number of other people who've had similar experiences with items being overpriced, so it doesn't seem like I'm the only one who feels this way. I left feeling incredibly disappointed and frustrated. I was already concerned about the pricing before today, and then to have the price of an item increased by $6 at the counter because it was branded was the final straw. Unfortunately, I won't be returning. I have always enjoyed supporting op shops, but this experience has completely changed my opinion of this one. I hope the pricing approach is reconsidered because, in my opinion, op shops should remain affordable and accessible for the people who need them most.”

“Terrible terrible Service went in today and was watched by one of the girls that work there like I was a thief horrible feeling Ill never set foot in there again or give donations. I gave her no reason to suspect me. Its a charity Shop not a boutique. I have morals!!”

“The Epilepsy Foundation Op Shop is huge! There's something for everyone here. Loads of cool vintage items however, be prepared to pay top price. Turnover of stock doesn't seem to be the objective. Super friendly volunteers make this the best op shop in Hastings.”

“So prices are a bit of a range, but I found some good items at good prices. Great sized store and well laid out too!”

“I have recently purchased two things from this op shop, A scarf which I paid $18 for only to find it had two cut out holes in it when I got home and a very expensive belt which cost $25 and it fell apart when I got home. It is very expensive second hand with inferior goods. Not happy.”