ShopSmart Divulges Outlet Shopping Secrets
How to Find High-Quality Items for Rock-Bottom Prices
The July 2010 issue of ShopSmart, from the publisher of Consumer Reports had a great article on outlet shopping.
TOP 10 TIPS TO OUTLET SHOPPING
BEFORE YOU GO…
1. Have a plan of attack: Check the outlet mall’s website for maps, printable coupons and special promotions.
2. Time it right: Outlets have similar schedules to retails stores; extra savings can be found around the holidays, though they will be much more crowded at those times.
3. Get the Coupons: Major outlet malls offer coupon books at a cost, so check outlet websites as some will have a voucher to get the book for free if you sign up for their membership club.
4. Log on: Check outlets’ Facebook accounts. Also type in the name of the individual stores and the word “outlet” into a search engine and you may pull up additional savings.
ONCE YOU’RE THERE…
5. Spot the good stuff: Some outlets sell garments that were previously at retail stores while others sell lower-priced clothing made specifically for the outlet. If you are uncertain, ask a salesperson.
6. Don’t go crazy: Just because it’s in an outlet center doesn’t mean deep discounts. The item could be the same price as regular full-price stores, so use your Web-enabled phone to go to a price-comparison site.
7. Chat up the salesperson: You can find out little-known details, like when new shipments will arrive and that prices ending in certain numbers can indicate a clearance or limited quantity item.
8. Join the club: Many outlet stores have frequent-shopper programs that offer additional savings, such as coupons after you spend a set amount or bonus savings on your birthday.
9. Understand the return policy: They are often stricter at outlets than at retail stores of the same name.
10. Have a great time.
Additionally, KFSN-TV Fresno, CA did a great story on this. You can see the video here.
SOURCE: Consumer Reports
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