Glendale auction house notices Generation Z interest in baby boomers

By Susan Kern-Fleischer EJ’s Public Relations

At a recent auction preview at EJ’s Auction & Appraisal in Glendale, several young people were looking at the vintage baseball caps.

A few weeks earlier, a collection of vinyl records also attracted young bidders. Many of the unwanted items of baby boomers could be the new treasures of Generation Z, says Erik Hoyer, owner of EJ’s.

“Many people who are downsizing or liquidating their estates often make the mistake of donating or throwing away older items that they mistakenly believe are worthless,” Hoyer explained in a press release. “There is a new generation of younger bidders who enjoy shopping on the secondary market, and many of them are looking for vintage and antique items at auctions.”

According to a 2022 ThredUP report, 62% of Gen Z and Millennials look for used items before purchasing a new version of them. A 2024 Bank of America survey found that more than 80% of affluent Millennials and Gen Z are passionate art collectors.

Hoyer said more and more young people are registering to bid in her weekly online auctions. Items sought include:

• Records and record players
• Vintage clothing, including baseball caps and concert t-shirts
• Retro electronics, including games consoles and stereos
• Mid-century modern furniture
• Minimalist art and home decor

• Pop culture memorabilia

Hoyer’s son Garrett and daughter Tabitha help run the family business.

Many young bidders appreciate the longevity of vintage items, which were often made with higher quality materials and with greater care than today.

“It’s fun to shop at thrift stores and auctions, especially when you find a cool vintage item at an affordable price,” said Tabitha Hoyer. “Many people my age also have a love of nostalgia and good craftsmanship.”

EJ’s Auction & Appraisal, 5880 W. Bell Road, conducts weekly online estate auctions on Saturdays at 10 a.m. and specialty auctions every other Friday at noon. For more information, visit the website or call 623-878-2003.