The definition of recession is the crisis of overproduction. Literally, the shelves are full of goods, but consumers have run out of money. This crisis is a natural byproduct of capitalism. Workers produce 10 chairs, but only get paid enough to purchase 9 chairs. Eventually the economy locks up with excess inventory, and adjustments are necessary. The banking system can delay the crisis onset with credit, but eventually that too maxes out. During the recession, inventory gets liquidated and sold off below cost until the available money supply in the economy once again equals the value of the remaining inventory to be sold. Unpayable debts are cancelled and written off. At that point the economic crisis is over. So, as you say, in normal economic growth, liquidation deals are few, and credit is easily accessible, and consumers prefer to purchase brand name, retail, new products, often on credit. However, during recessions, liquidations are everywhere, and cash is in short supply. Credit is also tight, as is employment. People are looking for deals to maximize their purchasing power because getting more cash is the hardest part. This is the time when you can make good money in the liquidation game. It lasts only as long as the recession itself.