Goodwill planning second store in Arlington Heights

As part of Goodwill's growth push in the suburban area, a second store is expected to open in Arlington Heights this fall.

Goodwill Industries recently signed a lease for 16,540 square feet at Surrey Ridge Shopping Center at the northeast corner of Golf and Algonquin roads, according to Oakbrook Terrace-based Mid-America Management. The new store, in the Lowe's-anchored shopping center, is expected to open in November.

Goodwill operates a store on the northern end of Arlington Heights.

The nonprofit company, which started its retail growth plan before the recession, is seeing sales increase as Americans try to make every penny count.

"We're finding success in the Chicago market and will continue to make a push there," said Laura Sanders, director of marketing for Goodwill.

More than ever before, the resale stores are attracting a new, younger clientele with perhaps a slightly higher income. This comes at a time when cash-strapped shoppers continue to remain conservative in their spending.

"We're seeing a great interest in our stores. The economy feeds into that," Sanders said. She added that shoppers are finding quality merchandise and an opportunity to get more for their dollar.

Housewares, sporting equipment, shoes, purses and even wedding dresses are found at the 15 stores in Illinois, including in Bartlett, Batavia, Carol Stream, Carpentersville, Glendale Heights, Lake Zurich, Mundelein, Naperville and South Elgin.