A bargain bin refers to an assorted selection of merchandise, particularly clothing, tools and optical discs, which have been discounted in price.
Reasons for the discount can range from the closure of a production company to a steep decline in an item's popularity in the aftermath of a fad or scandal.
The origin of the term comes from the fact such items would be found in an isolated bin rather than on store shelves.
Chicago's Marshall Field's had begun selling discounted stock from its cellar level before 1910, and many retailers followed suit.
The term "bargain bin" is used in New Zealand, Australia, and some other countries to refer to a retailer whose primary function is to sell cheap goods (i.e., a variety store).