Bernas gave tips for people as they shop during the holiday season. He spoke about how to avoid shopping scams on Black Friday.
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“Instead of setting an alarm to brave crowds for deeply discounted items, dedicated shoppers are expected to look for deals online in advance of Black Friday, similar to last year,” said Bernas. “However, the concern is that shoppers do so with caution.”
He also discussed how ongoing supply chain challenges could impact holiday shopping in 2021 and offered warnings for shoppers about price hikes caused by inflation.
“The impact of the continued pandemic, hiring challenges for retailers, expected global supply chain interruptions, and other economic factors will determine how people will shop,” said Bernas. “Retail experts are predicting higher-than-normal crowds in the stores and increased percentages in spending on gifts, decorations, and overall holiday-related purchases.”
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For those who will do their shopping on Black Friday, BBB offers these tips to make shopping experiences productive and enjoyable:
Stay Safe. Follow CDC guidelines and the policies of individual retailers for health and safety while in the store. While shopping online beware of fake websites. And avoid clicking on deals that pop-up on social media sites or in emails.
Make the most of Black Friday deals. Start with a list of items and use sale flyers and promotions to determine which store has the best price. Set a budget and stick with it before heading out.
Know the return policy and warranty information. Pass along any information about returns, exchanges, repairs, and warranties to the person who will use the item. Gift receipts are an easy way for recipients to return or exchange a gift if it’s not just right, but make sure the item is able to be returned before purchasing.
Read the fine print. Some retailers may offer an additional percentage off the purchase, but could exclude certain deals or items such as “door busters.” Watch for companies boasting a high percentage off; the item may be “75% off,” but the original price could be inflated. Carefully check the price tags, terms, and conditions. Research online using a secure wifi connection to see if competitors have the item at a better price.
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Plan out the excursion. Sometimes it’s not necessary to wait to see what deals will be offered on Black Friday. As is being seen this year, retailers often will release Black Friday flyers weeks ahead of time, so consumers can plan out their shopping spree. Make a map of the stores to visit and what items…
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