Thrifty Hillsdale shoppers can now enjoy a greater selection of low prices with the opening of Hot Deals New & Used Consignment, which joins Salvation Army in Hillsdale’s downtown resale market.
Open since May 9, Hot Deals has seen increasing amounts of profitable sales, encouraging owners Kristy and Randy Winchell to expand from their location on 130 N. West St. to a new space just south of the Fairgrounds. Coming in October, shoppers can find Hot Deals at its new location, selling furniture, clothing, and household items, along with clearance items at its current location on N. West St.
“It’s always been my dream to run a consignment store. In other towns I’d have Randy stop for me to visit resale stores,” Mrs. Winchell said.
As a consignment store, Hot Deals currently sources items from 50 consignors, who receive 50 percent payout for each item priced by the Winchells. If a consignor doesn’t produce new items in a months’ time, the Winchells sign in a new client from their waiting list.
First-time shopper Amy Kas liked what she saw at Hot Deals.
“The items are good and it smells good. That’s what matters—you don’t want to be buying other people’s dirty things,” Kas said.
Prior to entering the consignment business, the Winchells used their company name at art fairs, where they sold sand art, blow-up toys, and marshmallow guns. Now their flame-themed brand name permanently resides in the Hillsdale community.
“Customers get a show while they shop with Randy around because he’s so funny and welcoming. My husband’s a customer person. I’m getting better,” Mrs. Winchell said.
Mr. Winchell is excited that the college students are back, and is confident Hot Deals can deliver to their needs.
“We have clothes, shoes, knickknacks, kitchen things, fishing poles, grills, shovels, crock pots, said Mr. Winchell, “You know, everything that a college student should have.”