Iconic Goodwill gets serious with online business for thrifters

A Goodwill store sign is shown in Berkeley, Calif., Tuesday, March 9, 2021. Goodwill Industries International Inc., the 120 year-old non-profit organization that operates 3,300 stores in the U.S., and Canada, has launched an online business, as part of a newly incorporated recommerce venture called GoodwillFinds. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File)

Thrifters who flock to Goodwill stores will now be able to do some serious treasure hunting online as well.

The Goodwill Industries International Inc., the 120-year-old non-profit organization that operates 3,300 stores in the U.S., and Canada, has launched an online business as part of a newly incorporated venture called GoodwillFinds. Until now, Goodwill had no centralized online business, with each store selling some of its donations online via third-party websites such as eBay and Amazon.

The venture will help fund its community-based programs across the U.S. provide professional training, job placement and youth mentorship. It should also increase donations, while also helping to expand its base of customers.