Pawn shops becoming new holiday shopping destination

Pawn shops becoming new holiday shopping destination

By JOSH AULT
6 News Reporter

KNOXVILLE (WATE) -- Atomic Pawn Manager Valarie McAliley says business has been up for the past nine months. She doesn't see the trend stopping anytime soon.

More and more shoppers are looking for bargains as the economy struggles to come back.

Amber Evans was at Atomic Pawn Thursday. Every year she does her holiday shopping at pawn shops.

"Because they have the best deals in town," said Evans, "If you go to Wal-mart you pay at least 30% more for whatever your wanting."

Pawn shop owners say they have seen an increase in shoppers and those pawning items to get more money for the holidays.

"You can bring in TVs, DVD players, people bring in stereo equipment," said McAiley.

McAliley says the amount of money you can get for these items varies, it depends on what the demand is.

"You name it, they've got it," said Evans.

Evans says she plans to continue shopping at pawn shops as long as she can get a good deal. McAliley hopes those who have never thought of spending their money here will give them a try.