What happens to unclaimed baggage when it doesn’t find its owner? Most of the time, it ends up in Scottsboro, Alabama, at Unclaimed Baggage, a unique business that buys lost luggage from airlines and resells the items inside. Founded in 1970 by Doyle Owens, the company has grown into a multimillion-dollar enterprise and has become a favorite shopping destination for bargain hunters and treasure seekers.
The Origins of Unclaimed Baggage
The story begins when Owens had a bold idea: what if there was a market for the unclaimed baggage that airlines couldn’t return to passengers? After making a deal with a local bus line to buy lost luggage, he took the items home, sorted through them, and resold them to locals. What started as a one-off purchase in the back of a borrowed truck quickly evolved into a thriving business.
Over the years, Unclaimed Baggage expanded from selling locally to becoming a national and even international destination. Today, people visit their massive retail store in Scottsboro, which spans over 50,000 square feet, filled with everything from clothing and jewelry to electronics and high-end luggage. Shoppers never know what treasures they’ll find!
Growth and Revenue
The business now works with airlines across the U.S. to buy and resell lost luggage, processing nearly 7,000 new items daily. What makes Unclaimed Baggage stand out is the sheer variety of products: you could find anything from basic T-shirts to expensive cameras and designer accessories. They’ve even launched an online store, allowing customers worldwide to browse and buy unclaimed treasures.
Financially, Unclaimed Baggage is incredibly successful. The company generates around $11 million in annual revenue, driven by the curiosity and thrill of shopping for second-hand but often valuable items at a discount. The business has not only created jobs for the local community but has become a unique tourist attraction in Alabama.
Want to Start a Similar Business?
If you’re inspired by Unclaimed Baggage, here are a few tips to get started:
- Build Relationships with Airlines: The business model depends on buying unclaimed luggage in bulk from airlines. Establishing contracts and maintaining those relationships is key.
- Warehousing and Sorting: You’ll need a system to sort through thousands of items, figure out what’s sellable, and ensure that quality products hit the shelves.
- Physical or Online Store: Start with either a physical store like Unclaimed Baggage or take advantage of e-commerce by setting up an online platform. Keep in mind that shipping logistics will be a big part of your business if you go online.
- Marketing and Branding: People love the thrill of discovering hidden treasures. A strong marketing strategy focused on the mystery and excitement of unclaimed items will be essential to your success.
Unclaimed baggage is big business, and Unclaimed Baggage has proven that with the right approach, lost luggage can lead to found fortunes! 🧳✨Check them out at unclaimedbaggage.com.
