Pawn shops become hot spots for back-to-school shopping

DAYTON — Back-to-school shopping on a budget has become increasingly important to families as the result of the Coronavirus pandemic. 

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Gordon’s Jewelry and Loan, located on East Third Street in Dayton, is busy with parents and students looking for supplies for the new year. 

“The number one reason is cost of savings. Right now, is a challenging time. If you can save $50. It’s in your pocket and not in the big box stores,” said Mark Gordon who owns Gordon’s Jewelry and Loan with his wife Kathy. 

Gordon says the top three items people are looking for are laptops, tablets and gaming systems. However, students are also looking for musical instruments, calculators, TVs and bicycles for use at home or college campuses.

“Kids think it has to be new, and they don’t think it’s really good unless it’s new. Until they have to buy it for themselves, they then understand,” said grandmother Joanne Coates. 

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In addition to items being bought at the pawn shop, Gordon told News Center 7 many customers are also selling items or taking out temporary loans to buy school supplies. 

“Gold is gold, a diamond is a diamond. Whether they are chandeliers and they serve wine or cheese. We have florescent lights and we save money by doing that and we pass it onto our customers,” said Gordon.

Gordon also told News Center 7 that parents who are sending their kids back to school are also buying tools and other home improvement items. He said parents are doing some work around the house while the kids are away. 

Cox Media Group