What is General Merchandise? A Simple Guide for Shoppers and Sellers
When you walk through a big-box store or browse online marketplaces, you’ll often come across the term General Merchandise. But what does it really mean? And why is it such a big deal in the world of retail and resale?
Let’s break it down.
What is General Merchandise?
In simple terms, general merchandise includes a wide range of products that don’t fall into the grocery or food category. It covers just about everything else you’d find in a department or discount store, including:
- Home goods (decor, furniture, small appliances)
- Electronics (headphones, speakers, smart devices)
- Apparel (clothing, shoes, accessories)
- Toys and games
- Office supplies
- Seasonal items (holiday décor, gardening tools, etc.)
Think of it as the “everything else” section of retail. It’s diverse, fast-moving, and often deeply discounted, especially in the liquidation and surplus market.
Why Does General Merchandise Matter?
For shoppers, general merchandise means variety and value. For resellers and liquidation buyers, it represents a goldmine of opportunity.
- Shoppers love general merchandise for deals and convenience. One store, one cart, and you can cover several needs.
- Retailers use general merchandise to draw foot traffic and upsell additional items.
- Resellers and pallet buyers look to general merchandise for profit margins. Buying returned or overstock general merchandise pallets from big retailers can lead to high-value inventory at a fraction of the retail cost.
Buying General Merchandise in Bulk
If you’re in the reselling business, sourcing general merchandise is a smart strategy. Liquidation and surplus companies often bundle general merchandise into mixed pallets or truckloads. These might include returns, shelf pulls, or overstock goods from major retailers.
Pros:
- Wide product variety
- Potential for high resale value
- Great for online stores, flea markets, and discount shops
Tips:
- Always research the condition (new, like-new, returns)
- Understand the source (retailer, brand)
- Start small to get a feel for the inventory
Final Thoughts
General merchandise is a flexible, exciting category with something for everyone—whether you’re a casual shopper, a bargain hunter, or a savvy reseller. Its broad scope makes it a cornerstone of retail, and a valuable asset for anyone looking to profit from the resale world.
Looking to buy general merchandise pallets? Make sure you’re sourcing from reputable sellers, and always check what’s inside. You never know what gems you’ll find!