Augusta, GA — As the Masters Tournament draws near, local thrift and consignment stores in Augusta are preparing for a surge in customers, eager to purchase golf memorabilia and Masters-themed items. Shops like Second Time Around, a popular consignment store, begin collecting golf gear and tournament-related merchandise months in advance to meet the increased demand that comes with the influx of visitors to the area.

Karen Cole, owner of Second Time Around, explained that customers flock to the store not only for Masters-specific items but also to spruce up their homes in anticipation of the busy week. “We try to get the front looking good, put some signs outside that say ‘golf memorabilia sold here,’ and display some of the nicer furniture pieces that we have,” Cole said. The store also boasts a large warehouse in the back, filled with more furniture that is carefully selected for display during the peak shopping period.

While people purchase Masters gear year-round, Cole noted that the weeks leading up to the tournament represent the busiest time for local thrift stores. “They really start a month before The Masters, and even after the tournament ends, we still see people lingering in town, hoping to pick up items they might have missed while out on the course,” Cole added.

This high demand for Masters-themed merchandise has become a significant aspect of Augusta’s local economy. As thousands of visitors from across the globe descend upon the city, many find themselves exploring the city’s thrift stores for unique keepsakes to commemorate their time at the prestigious event.

The influx of tourists has created a vibrant atmosphere in these local shops, and Cole shared her excitement about meeting visitors from around the world. “We love to see the tourists come in, it’s so fun to talk to people, especially when they have an accent from Scotland and other places like that,” she said. “Even the locals get so excited about this time of the year. It’s just a whole different vibe.”

For those seeking Masters memorabilia, now is the perfect time to visit these stores. With many thrift shops beginning to display their goods in the lead-up to the tournament, it’s crucial to act quickly before inventory runs out. Whether it’s a special piece of golf history or a unique piece of furniture to complete a home, Augusta’s local thrift stores are ready to cater to the needs of Masters visitors looking to take home a piece of the tournament experience.