Consider This from NPR

The Fate Of That Unwanted Air Fryer After You Return It

Jan 21, 2022
The surge in online shopping has led to a staggering number of returns, with many unwanted items ending up in landfills. Explore the intriguing journey of these returned goods, many of which surprisingly get resold. Discover the competitive thrill of bargain hunters who sift through mountains of returns, hoping to find hidden treasures. The podcast also delves into the unexpected economic consequences of the easy return system we often take for granted, revealing the complexities behind our shopping habits.
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ANECDOTE

Glamping Gear Returns

  • Alexei Horowitz-Ghazi enjoys "glamorous camping" equipment like solar string lights and camping wine glasses.
  • He buys these non-essential items online because of the easy return option.
INSIGHT

Resellers and Bargain Bins

  • Online shoppers frequently return items, leading Alexei to investigate the fate of returned goods.
  • He discovered a world of resellers and bargain bin stores.
ANECDOTE

Bargain Bin Battlefield

  • Alexei visited a bargain bin store in Raleigh, North Carolina before dawn.
  • Resellers are highly competitive, pushing and shoving for returned items.
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