If you haven’t shopped at Triad Goodwill’s Outlet store yet, you’re in for a unique, high energy, and affordable thrifting experience. Dozens of blue bins filled with pounds upon pounds of clothing, shoes, books, and housewares line the open floor space – and now, thanks to some innovative business thinking – snacks, drinks, and display shelves dot the sales floor.
“I want this to have more of a retail store feel to it,” explains Demetrius, the new Store Manager for the Triad Goodwill Outlet. “People have the misconception that we’re a dump, or we don’t have nice things at this location, but we really do. People travel from across North Carolina just to shop at this store- and they’ll stay here all day just to see what we bring out.”
After graduating with his degree in Business Administration, Demetrius was looking for a job where he could grow and flex his entrepreneurial mindset. He found an open job listing on LinkedIn for Goodwill and hasn’t looked back. “I just fell in love with Goodwill. I can be myself, use entrepreneurial skills, and have fun.”
Demetrius was initially hired at Goodwill as a Donation Attendant and was quickly promoted to a Shift Supervisor then Assistant Store Manager. In February of 2024 he was promoted to Outlet Store Manager.
“Managing the Outlet store is different than our traditional stores,” he explains. “It’s more collaborative over here and very high energy with enthusiastic customers. Our team has warehouse experience and is constantly moving new items in and out of the store.”
Twice a day, his team will switch out each of the 70 bins. “There’s a lot of strategy, trust, and delegation of responsibility to make sure product is always fresh for our customers.”
Throughout Demetrius’s five years with Triad Goodwill, he has taken multiple skills training courses, including financial and computer trainings, business strategy sessions, and retail competition workshops.
“Goodwill helped me gain the skills and hands-on training that I needed. When I graduated college, a lot of jobs told me ‘no’ because of the lack of experience I had in my field. Triad Goodwill helped me gain the skills I need to succeed in this fast-paced world. I’ve learned how to motivate my team, give advice on how they can grow, and show my appreciation for them.”
When asked what he’s learned about himself since working at Triad Goodwill, Demetrius shared this – “One thing I learned is not to be afraid to grow. Don’t let fear keep you from being successful.”
Visit Demetrius and his team Monday – Saturday from 10AM – 7PM and on Sunday from 1PM – 6PM at 1235 S. Eugene Street in Greensboro. The outlet store is right next to the retail store, and clothing, shoes, housewares, and books are sold by the pound. Furniture is also available (depending on inventory) at deep discounts.
