Voss

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jederick Loc: Northern Utah

An amazing business...buy cheap, sell high. A fellow I knew owned a pawn shop and would always say "you make your money when you buy". He further said in his area, about 60-70% of the people never returned to claim their goods...sad commentary.

Great story here Voss, thanks for sharing.

Voss

Thanks, jederick. One thing you do need is a good eye for value. If you've got that, you've got it made.

SATS Loc: Belgium

The photograph is fine as usual. I think it is the social implications that folks are finding harder to comment on. When I was a kid in Liverpool, pawn shops were not as prevalent as other types of shops but everyone knew where there was one. Looking back, they seemed to become less prevalent as the so called 'nanny state' became more overarching. I have just done an internet look up and there are quite a few still going in the UK, mainly around London but other places as well. There are 18 listed in Belgium, all around Brussels however most of these tend to be second hand shops that do a bit of pledging on the side. That tends to reflect a change in social attitudes. Many people that have bought new, either give their old stuff to shops that support a particular charity or to general bring and buy shops. Those people that are either strapped for cash or think their stuff has significant value will either sell to second hand shops or dispose of it through e-bay, Craig's List and the likes. Either way, direct selling seems to have largely replaced pledging as a way of meeting temporary financial needs.

dragonfist Loc: Stafford, N.Y.

Must be about just about halfway between payday or for the less fortunate no payday in sight. I daresay though that the fellow on the right does look as if he gets enough to eat. There but for the grace of God go I. Very touching photo Voss.

jaymatt Loc: Alexandria, Indiana

Waiting for the doors to open, I presume. Nice shot.

Voss

You may be right about your assessment. I've seen very few of them around.

Voss

Thanks, dragonfist. I was surprised at the number of people standing around there, apparently waiting for it to open. It was taken in Laredo, Texas, a border city.

Voss

That's my guess, although as I recall, it seemed late in the morning. And, thanks.

jpgto Loc: North East Tennessee

A hot item for sale??? Nice image Voss

Voss

It's possible. Thanks, Jeff.