It's been the strongest shopping season in years. Retailers say store sales increased 5% and online sales were up 19%. But that was before Christms and the all mighty day after.
December 26th is a day of shopping and sales which gives Black Friday and Cyber Monday a run for their money.
In fact,sale prices seem to be the new norm because of stiff competition and the Amazon factor.
At Great Northern Mall in North Olmsted, there were signs everywhere advertising “Clear your Clothes”, "Clearances”, “After Christmas Stock-Up” sales and “75% off” steals. It was a virtual Shangri La for shoppers, both in store and online. And it will continue for at least the next few weeks.
Clothing is a category you can make a killing in because retailers are clearing out for Spring.
Shopping expert Rachel Krych, who runs the blog Couponing with Rachel, says, "If you don't need anything right now because you got so many things on your Christmas list, think about things you can wear for next Fall and next Winter."
Also a sure bet for savings, Christmas themed stuff and not just wrapping paper, cards or tree ornaments.
Rachel says, think out of the Christmas box, "Grab those red plates that you can use for Valentine's day. Green paper cups that you can use for St. Patrick's day. And the stocking stuffers that are really cheap right now would be great for Easter baskets.”
Toys are also tops for sales especially if you can wait until January. And Target is the place for you to set your sights on for those up to 50% off right now.
Certain electronics are also a best bet, where Best Buy is trying to move merchandise that didn’t sell on Black Friday or might have been returned. It’s advertising sales of up to 40% off clearance and open box items.
But, you’ll want to wait for most TV purchases. Black Friday was the time to do that. And if you’re looking for Apple products, you probably won’t find many sweet deals, because its stuff sells well without sales.
Krych says, for many items though, "If you can wait to end get up to 75%. In January up to 90%.
Some other stores with deep discounts now, Kohl's is cutting up to 70% off prices. Nordstrom is knocking off up to 50% as part of their half yearly sale.
And if you want furniture, Wayfair’s got just what you need. It’s offering savings up to 75% off.
“Nationwide stores have dropped their prices at least 50% off,” says Krych.
Now, what about price matching? Can you get an adjustment on something you bought over the holidays that's cheaper now?
Well, every store's policy is different, and only some offer post-purchase adjustments. Others exclude items bought between certain dates over the holiday season. And there are deadlines, of course, for making those claims.
So, check with the store. But it’s worth a try.