Goodwill Bloomington-Normal IL - Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries

Closed
Est. 1992
★★★½3.5
Goodwill Bloomington-Normal IL - Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries in Normal, IL

About Goodwill Bloomington-Normal IL - Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries

Goodwill Bloomington-Normal, part of the Land of Lincoln Goodwill Industries, offers a variety of secondhand items while also providing essential job training and employment services to individuals in need. This store plays a vital role in the community by helping people enhance their skills and find meaningful work.

The atmosphere at Goodwill Bloomington-Normal is a blend of a typical thrift store and a community hub. Most customers appreciate the helpful staff and the wide range of items available, although some have noted that occasional staff attitudes can vary.

Located in Normal, IL, this Goodwill store is easily accessible for those in the surrounding areas. It's a family-owned business since 1992, making it a staple in the community for thrift shopping and supporting local employment initiatives.

Editor's Review

The Goodwill Bloomington-Normal location in Normal, IL, showcases a blend of community spirit and some growing pains that are evident in customer reviews. Many patrons appreciate the friendly atmosphere and helpful staff, with one consumer noting, 'The cashiers at this location have always been respectful, helpful, and courteous!' This sentiment captures how important customer service is in establishing a welcoming vibe for shoppers. Additionally, some shoppers find value in the continuous influx of donations, which keeps the inventory fresh, as indicated by the practice of introducing new stock every Tuesday.

However, a noticeable number of reviews highlight frustrations regarding pricing and organization. For instance, Laura Cherry mentioned a specific incident where a staff member's attitude detracted from her shopping experience. Meanwhile, Ronald Burton expressed disappointment with the pricing, stating, 'What started as a place where people with limited income could go and buy affordable items... has now turned into another corporate greed cash grab.' This tension between community support and business practices reflects a larger narrative about thrift stores adapting to market demands, sometimes at the expense of their original mission.

Overall, while Goodwill Bloomington-Normal has commendable staff and a steady supply of inventory, it faces challenges regarding pricing and customer interactions that could affect its reputation. As shoppers weigh these factors, it's clear that this store holds a special place in the hearts of many locals, yet it still has room for improvement.

Best for: This store is best for community members looking for affordable clothing and household items, provided they can tolerate some pricing inconsistencies.

What We Like

  • Friendly and helpful staff
  • New inventory introduced regularly
  • Community support through donations

Room for Improvement

  • High prices compared to other thrift stores
  • Disorganized clothing sections
  • Some negative customer service experiences

What Customers Are Saying

The cashiers at this location have always been respectful, helpful, and courteous!

Sy Guzman

What started as a place where people with limited income could go and buy affordable items... has now turned into another corporate greed cash grab.

Ronald Burton

What Shoppers Say

Based on analysis of 5 customer reviews

StaffMixed

Cashiers...always been respectful, helpful, and courteous!

PricesPoor

Ridiculous prices mid selection.

SelectionBelow Average

Clothes are disorganized and there is no rhyme or reason.

Best for: Shoppers seeking affordable items but wary of high prices.

Insider Tips

Be cautious of high prices on items.

Check the organization of clothing before shopping.

Thrift & Consignment Stores Details

No EBT

Certifications

SNAP/EBT Accepted

What to Expect

  • You can expect a welcoming shopping experience with a mix of new and gently used items.
  • The product selection is diverse, with new inventory arriving every Tuesday and a focus on community donations.
  • Prices are generally affordable, making it a great option for those looking for bargains and unique finds.

Business Highlights

  • Family owned since 1992
  • Accepts EBT/SNAP
  • New inventory every Tuesday
  • Seniors, Military Active Duty and First Responders receive 15% off
  • Vocational training programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities
  • Job fairs and career services available

Google Reviews

Laura Cherry
Laura Cherry3 months ago
★★☆☆☆

Two stars only because the rest of the staff has always been wonderful. However, I believe one woman—possibly the manager—regularly carries an unnecessary attitude that makes interactions uncomfortable. When I first asked about returns, I mentioned I...

Ronald Burton
Ronald Burtona month ago
☆☆☆☆

I would give goodwill zero stars if possible. What started as a place where people with limited income could go and buy affordable items that were donated for FREE, has now turned into another corporate greed cash grab. When prices in a thrift st...

Sy Guzman
Sy Guzman5 years ago
★★★★★

The cashiers at this location have always been respectful, helpful, and courteous! The store is constantly kept stocked due to community support in donations. (Not a fan of the creepy dude who works in the back Receiving Department but having recen...

Grace Soucie
Grace Soucie3 months ago
☆☆☆☆

RIDICULOUS prices mid selection. they price eveything as if its new even when it's damaged or stained. greedy capitalist company, i would head to restore, they dont have as much clothes but lovely selection, prices, and the money actually goes to a g...

Tara Baldovin
Tara Baldovin4 months ago
☆☆☆☆

If I could give this place zero stars I would. Clothes are disorganized and there is no rhyme or reason based on sizing. Not to mention the ridiculous price gauging going on here and all other goodwills. Support locally owned thrift stores.

Reviews from Google

Specialties

Job trainingEmployment opportunities

Payment Methods

CashCredit/DebitEBT/SNAP

Frequently Asked Questions

Visiting Tips

If you're a first-time visitor, take your time exploring the various sections to discover hidden gems.

Visiting on Tuesday can be a great idea, as that's when new inventory is put out.

There's ample parking available nearby, making it easy to stop by and browse without hassle.

Hours

  • monday10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  • tuesday10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  • wednesday10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  • thursday10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  • friday10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  • saturday10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  • sunday11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

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Customer Reviews