Tips For Penny Shopping Including What Stores Offer Penny Items

What stores offer penny items? Keep reading for our full list.

Most chain stores nowadays use computerized point of sale (POS) systems that not only track inventory and sales but also universal pricing. This allows the headquarters to automatically tell the individual stores when an item’s price should change, either because of inflation or being clearanced out. Items are clearanced out for many reasons, including being discontinued, out of season, or even packaging changing.

Many stores use a “penny system” that reduces the price of items to 1¢ (yes, one cent) that tells managers and employees that those items should be sent back to the distribution center. So these items are supposed to be removed from the shelves, but with stores being short-staffed, they sometimes slip through the cracks.

If you’re lucky, you might be able to find some of these penny items. But being able to actually purchase them sometimes is a different story. It’s up to the discretion of the employee and/or manager if they will allow you to purchase the product (if they do notice the $0.01 price when you checkout). Keep reading for detailed tips on how to purchase penny items without any hassle.

Contents

Stores That Offer Penny Items
What Happens To Unsold Penny Items?
Tips For Penny Shopping

Stores That Offer Penny Items

Check out these stores known for their penny deals and get ready to uncover some hidden treasures!

Dollar General

Dollar General (also known simply as DG) is probably the store most known for penny deals, as there are many Facebook groups and even websites dedicated to the subject. DG’s weekly penny list draws penny shoppers in with the promise of deeply discounted items, creating a frenzy of excitement every Friday.

Dollar Tree

While Dollar Tree is not as well-known for penny shopping, Dollar Tree occasionally surprises shoppers at checkout when something rings up for a penny. We do not know of a way to know ahead of time the discounted prices though.

Family Dollar

At Family Dollar, it’s a bit hit or miss since they’re not supposed to sell penny items. But diligent shoppers have reported finding penny items tucked away in Family Dollar’s clearance sections, offering a chance for thrifty scores.

Hibbett Sports

Though less common than other stores, Hibbett Sports has been known to offer penny deals on select items, including athletic gear and accessories, for those lucky enough to stumble upon them.

Home Depot

Home Depot’s penny items are a bit like hidden treasures – you won’t find them listed online, but keep an eye out in the clearance sections that presents an opportunity for savvy shoppers to snag discounted tools and home improvement essentials.

Macy’s

While not widely publicized, Macy’s occasionally offers penny deals on select clearance items, making it worthwhile to browse their clearance sections for hidden treasures.

Michaels

Craft enthusiasts rejoice as Michaels offers penny deals on clearance items, often bundled in mystery grab bags, providing an opportunity to stock up on crafting supplies at unbeatable prices.

Nordstrom Rack

Known for its discounted designer goods, Nordstrom Rack occasionally offers penny deals on select clearance items, adding an extra layer of excitement to the hunt for bargains.

Walmart

Walmart’s “penny items” are usually 3¢ (three cents) instead of 1¢ (one cent), but a great deal none the same. Check out our guide to finding Walmart hidden clearance.

What Happens To Unsold Penny Items?

Penny items are pulled from the shelves usually end up at distribution centers before eventually making their way to liquidation and salvage stores. Find a liquidation store near you:

Keep an eye out – you never know where those penny treasures might turn up!

Tips For Penny Shopping

Ready to master the art of penny shopping? Here are some insider tips to help you score big savings and snag those elusive penny deals!

Join Penny Shopping Facebook Groups: These groups are goldmines of information. Joining them keeps you in the loop about the latest penny finds, store policies, and strategies shared by fellow penny shoppers.
Download Store Apps: Many stores have mobile apps that allow you to scan UPCs (barcode) in-store. This comes in handy for verifying prices and identifying penny items. Plus, some apps offer exclusive deals and discounts.
Utilize Self-Checkout: Self-checkout lanes can be your best friend when penny shopping. They often bypass the need for manager approval, making it easier to purchase penny items without any hassle.
Scope out Clearance Sections: Don’t just stick to the main aisles. Explore the clearance sections, end caps, and the back of the store. Penny items are often tucked away in these less frequented areas, waiting to be discovered.

Penny shopping isn’t easy. It takes a bit of know-how and a lot of luck. It also requires patience and persistence. Happy hunting!