Pawn shops have been around for ages and most have a reputation of being seedy, poorly-lit back room operations.
Contact 13's Tricia Kean explains how a local company is trying to change that image, while offering you some great savings.
"I'm a bargain shopper. I will shop forever until I get the right price," said Bishop.
That's why Bishop turns to pawn shops, specifically picking up some music recording gear for his home studio.
When Contact 13 met him, it was not his first time in the store.
"I've been coming here for four years and you get great prices here. Sometimes I'll just come by and come inside and browse and see what they have," said Bishop.
SuperPawn's Caroline Ciocca says business has been picking up as the economy has slowed down.
"We've seen an increase on the retail side. But we've also seen an increase on the gold side because gold is trading at an all-time high," said Caroline.
That means good money for people willing to part ways with their jewelry and big savings for those looking to buy.
"You'll get jewelry for 60% to 70% below retail prices," said Caroline.
If you're short on cash Ciocca says SuperPawn offers all shoppers a state-regulated loan program.
"These loans are short term so they're helping people get through a financial situation," said Caroline.
With no credit check Ciocca says SuperPawn's loan process could help a struggling family pay the bills.
There is no legal damage or debt collection if you can't repay.
"There's no recourse on the loan. So if you don't pay back your loan you just lose your merchandise," said Caroline.
Bishop has been a loyal shopper for years and says now more than ever the pawn shop industry could be a way to get you through these tough times.
"Nowadays you might want to come and look here as an option just to save money with the way things are going," said Bishop.
Here is the Contact 13 bottomline.
As one of the few publicly traded pawn companies, SuperPawn is more closely regulated than some other operations.
When it comes to merchandise, you can find a great deal as long as you don't mind it being slightly used.
Keep it tuned to Channel 13.
