A tiny $2.99 tote that sent shoppers on a hunt
Trader Joe’s mini canvas tote came in blue, red, green and yellow for $2.99. It sold out fast, then hit eBay listings for up to $500.

The branding lesson
In March 2024, Trader Joe’s mini canvas tote sold for $2.99 in blue, red, green and yellow, about the price of a pack of gum. Some stores sold out within a week and limited how many each shopper could buy, and eBay listings asked up to $500. Pastel versions followed in spring 2025.
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The psych of why it works
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Members onlyCredits and sources
- Brand
- Trader Joe's · Visit Trader Joe's
- Image
- ABC7 Chicago
- Found via
- CNN via KTVZ
- Industry
- Grocery and retail


