Retail Experts Urge Smarter Holiday Shopping as Sales Near $1.013 Trillion
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Nov 12
Retail Experts Urge Smarter Holiday Shopping as Sales Near $1.013 Trillion
3 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Nov 12
Summary
$1.013 trillion in November-December retail sales is the NRF forecast, but experts say higher gas and grocery bills will push shoppers to hunt harder for savings.
Retail advisers recommend comparing multiple retailers, including unfamiliar brands and private-label goods, and checking physical stores where local deals and in-store pickup can cut shipping costs.
A 50% off sign may not be the best bargain if fees lift the final bill; shoppers are urged to judge total cost, including delivery, installation and other charges.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday should not be the only targets, experts say, because tracking prices early and buying as promotions appear can reveal better value.
Price-adjustment policies can still protect late buyers, though experts say many retailers now limit matches to their own prices rather than competitors' offers.