"$6.98; that's pretty good," Madewell said as she eyed a Tupperware bundle at the Disabled American Veterans Thrift Store on Sunshine Street.

In March, Madewell will have another second-hand shop to search for her bargains. Workers are busy getting a third Springfield DAV Thrift Store ready to open on South Kansas Expressway. While a lot of businesses are feeling the pinch during this economic downturn, thrift stores are experiencing an up-tick.

"They are really being a little bit more thrifty. They are shopping, giving our clothing a second chance," said DAV Thrift Store manager James Hayworth.

Hayworth said DAV stores throughout the state are up about 10 percent compared to the year before, and some Springfield stores are doing even better.

"The Glenstone store, for example, is probably up about 18 percent," he said.

Hayworth hopes the new store will do well too. With 20,000 square feet to fill, it will be the company's largest store. To work all the space, managers intend to hire about 40 people; most of the positions will be full-time.

Although managers haven't advertised to fill those jobs, a simple "Help Wanted" message written on the front window is drawing in people hoping to find more than a good deal.

"At least 10 applications a day," Hayworth said.

There are still signs to hang and shelves to fill before opening day. Since the economy is still dragging, the latter may be a little more challenging to get done.

"Because business is up, it makes it harder to fill the store because donations are down," Hayworth said.

Though contributions have dropped, Hayworth is confident shelves will be stocked when the doors open -- luring in bargain hunters like Madewell.

"I'll be there," she said.

Clothing and household goods are accepted at DAV stores for anyone who would like to donate. The profits go to the Disabled American Veterans. The DAV hopes to open the new shop, the Red Rack Thrift Store, on March 11.