By admin 
TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Back-to-school shopping is expected to cost families more than ever this year. The National Retail Federation reports spending is on track to hit a record $43 billion, with the average family spending around $860.
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A local pop-up sale is offering an alternative. At the Just Between Friends sale at 2520 South Harrison (former Big Lots location), shoppers can find items at up to 90% off retail price. Early access to the Just Between Friends sale begins Wednesday, July 29. The pop-up is open through Saturday, August 1.
Shoppers can find shoes, clothing, books, lunch boxes, toys and more. The sale also includes Halloween costumes, Christmas gifts and items for infants.
Organizers say sales grow about 20% each year and expect even higher numbers this year.
Seller sign-ups are up more than 10% this year, allowing nearly 500 local families to make up to 60% of the sale price on items they bring in. Organizers say two factors are driving the increase: higher prices and tighter budgets, and continued growth in the resale industry, which is expected to expand by more than 15% this year.
Shawna Wilfert, organizer of Just Between Friends Tucson, said the event has more inventory than in any previous year.
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“This is a great way to say yes to all the things your kids need while not having to spend a ton of money,” Wilfert said. “It’s our back-to-school sale, we have the most inventory in all the years I’ve done this we’ve ever had, so it’s going to be a treasure hunt.”
Every item goes through a safety review before it hits the floor.
“We check for rips, stains, and tears. We also check with the safety recalls that have been put out by CPSC to make sure the car seats are safe, the cribs are safe,” Wilfert said. “We’re really doing everything we can to protect our Southern Arizona families.”
Organizers recommend shoppers make a list and think ahead for what they will need over the next six months.
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