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From Away-Bargain Shopping
March 2, 2005
By Colleen Stone
I was the only customer at the Palace Diner in Biddeford, so I didn't feel like I was bothering the
waitress when I asked: "Marden's or Renys?" I had come to check out Maine's famous discount chains and
was looking for tips from locals. Renys was visible out the small window. She wasted no time breaking
it down: Marden's is cheaper overall. Renys tends to have more quality stuff, but you just never know.
"You gotta hit it just right," she said.
Customers filtered in and offered their opinions. Brian Paquet of Biddeford pronounced "Biddafehd"
by locals said Renys has better clothes. Marden's, though, has furniture, rugs, food and lots of
cards. Todd Perry, an imposing figure with a wild mane of hair stuffed into a ponytail, was more
philosophical. "The question of Marden's or Renys isn't a clear-cut decision. If I don't find something
at one, I won't not go to the other." It dawned on me that people treat Marden's and Renys like they do
their kids, resisting picking a favorite, at least publicly. As I left for Renys, Perry said I'd
probably see him there; he was looking for a giant stuffed animal to behead for use at a masquerade
party that night.
I wasn't sure where to start when I walked in. Renys is not like Wal-Mart or Target, with
color-coordinated displays and wide aisles. The shelves are stuffed, the aisles are tight and you
might knock things over if you move your arms too much. I headed for the toy section and saw something
I hadn't in years: Finger soccer. I'll explain: You put "shoes" on your fingers and "kick" a little
ball into a goal. It's the worst game ever. But it was less than $2! I was still staring at the
package, dazed, when Perry walked up to me.
We wandered the aisles for the giant stuffed animal he sought. No luck, but Perry was more than happy
to guide me through the store, pointing out choice items like roadkill air fresheners (Apparently,
roadkill smells like vanilla. Perry said I could rub some tuna juice on them for an authentic effect.)
and 50-count boxes of tea lights for $2. Soon, I was finding bargains on my own and sharing them with
everyone within earshot. "Pledge wipes for three bucks! That's crazy! I drink this coffee! This coffee
is three dollars more at Hannaford!" Perry looked on, satisfied, and leaned in when I pointed out a
$30 shower radio. (I was now convinced I needed everything.) "You can find some cheaper shower radios
at Marden's," he whispered. I nodded, put the radio down and issued a silent warning to pace myself.
Perry departed and I continued on, plumbing the depths of the deals. I found working class Carhartt
apparel and trendy "Life is Good" hats. I found Sorel boots. I found sleeping bags. I found heavily
discounted Valentine's Day stuff. I looked down at my basket, which was fantastically schizophrenic:
A pound of Katahdin coffee, a Swiss chocolate bar, a hacksaw, two votive candle holders, a jug of
maple syrup and dust wipes. It was time to go before I did anything I'd regret.
I mean, a hacksaw?
My grand total came to $22.38. I couldn't wait to tell people what I got for my money. And then I
realized something; Mainers don't love these places just because they're cheap. They love them because
of the stories. Let's face it: No one needs a roadkill air freshener. But everyone loves to brag about
getting it for a dollar. I went back to the diner, where every stool was now taken, and popped my head
in so the waitress could see me. I held up my bag and we both laughed.
Excerpt From: Portland Press Herald, March 2005
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R.H. Reny, Inc.
731 Route 1
Newcastle, Maine 04553
Phone: (207)563-3177
Fax: (207)563-5681
E-Mail: feedback@renys.com
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