The resale industry is booming, and Instagram is becoming a go-to platform for thrift store resellers. Despite not being designed for selling, Instagram's social features are attracting sellers and buyers alike, offering a more personalized experience than traditional online thrift stores. Ashley Hauri, a Kansas City-based reseller, is one of many who have made the switch to Instagram, citing the community and connection she's built with her customers as the primary reason.

Hauri's Instagram shop, Clark's Closet Connection, has gained a loyal following of mostly moms who appreciate her curated selection of secondhand items. She posts new items in "drops," and customers comment "me!" to claim the item. The process is first come, first served, and Hauri confirms purchases and sends Venmo requests for payment. This manual process may not be the most efficient, but it allows Hauri to build relationships with her customers and understand their styles and preferences.

The resale industry is expected to outpace the broader retail sector ninefold by 2027, driven largely by millennials and Gen Z customers who prioritize environmental sustainability, uniqueness, and financial savings. While platforms like Poshmark, ThredUp, and eBay are designed specifically for reselling, Instagram's social features are proving to be a major draw. Sellers can build a community around their brand, share behind-the-scenes content, and engage with customers in a way that's not possible on traditional e-commerce platforms.

Andrea Bailey, a customer of Hauri's, appreciates the personalized experience Instagram resellers offer. "It's just more personable," Bailey said. "You're sharing your family and your pictures and your life. Overall, it's just a great experience." Bailey has been buying thrifted clothing for her four kids from Hauri for about five years and values the trust she's built with the seller.

Resellers like Hauri are creating strong bonds with their customers, often building a network of repeat customers. They're also attuned to the styles and preferences of their customers, which helps them curate their selection of secondhand items. Kristine Gill, another reseller, started thrifting in college as a way to save money and now sells items on Facebook Marketplace. She's found that she can curate a specific aesthetic that resonates with her customers.

The profits for resellers vary, but for many, it's a fun hobby that generates additional income. Hauri's Instagram account has grown through word of mouth, and she's now able to contribute meaningfully to her family's budget. As the economy continues to face uncertainty, the demand for secondhand items is likely to increase, and Instagram thrift store resellers are poised to capitalize on this trend.

The shift to Instagram also speaks to the changing nature of e-commerce and the importance of social media in the buying process. As consumers become increasingly savvy and environmentally conscious, they're seeking out more personalized and sustainable shopping experiences. Instagram's social features are filling a gap in the market, providing a platform for sellers and buyers to connect and build relationships.

While Instagram may not be the most efficient platform for selling, its social features are driving the growth of the resale industry. As the industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Instagram and other social media platforms adapt to meet the needs of sellers and buyers alike.