GAINESVILLE - Thrift and re-sale shops have grown at least 7 percent over the last two years.    

That's according to a report from the association of resale professionals.

Re-sale stores like Sandy's and consignment shops like Cecile's in gainesville say their sales have increased more than the average, 25 percent, over the last two years.

The report says 12 to 15  percent of Americans shop at consignment shops compared to 21 point 3 shopping at department stores. 

Workers say more people are coming and buying used clothes and jewelry compared to going to the mall.

"More and more people are doing it, people compared to years ago that would not buy used items are suddenly realizing that its wonderful for them and it's a lot of fun "

"We keep hoping that everyone keeps shopping and we stay busy."

Also in the report, Goodwill generated $2.6  billion in retail sales in 2010.