Sales Gimmick or Bargain?

Well I have certainly seen it all. I knew that the downturn in the economy would affect everyone including established businesses but it seems as if everyone is scrambling for a quick sale.

They all declare that they have the best products and you need to buy as much as you can. They use persuasive words to convince consumers that they will provide the best price. Sometimes they even make statements that lure the unsuspecting into making unnecessary purchases.

Of course, this is all a part of the marketing ploy to make consumers feel like they have to buy the product being advertised even if it is out of their reach. Consumers must beware falling for sales gimmicks as they maneuver through the various offers of discounts.

A recent bid for the consumer’s attention is the heavily advertised ‘Red Week’ by Courts in The Gleaner dated March 24, 2013. The week of March 22-28, 2013 is being described as a special week of discounts. Besides the offered 10% discount on the first item bought on 24-36 months credit there is also a 20% discount if a second item is bought on credit for the same period.

What is so different about this offer? Well, customers will get and additional 5% off the second item if they are wearing something red. No its not Valentine Day, instead its a bid to encourage customers to take advantage of their offer and purchase more than one item.

Sangster’s Books Store has also offered to their customers a store wide sale on general and text books. They have advertised up to 80% will be taken off selected items. The sale begins on March 25, 2013 and ends on the 31st.

So is it a bargain or a sales gimmick?

You only need to realize that the discount is only for items bought on credit to answer the question above. Although, I suppose if you had already planned on going the credit route that week would be the best time in order to qualify for the discounts.

The offer of the discounts on the books would depend on the type of books offered as well as their condition.

During these challenging financial times it is vital that we make use of any way we can to save as we shop, just make sure you are really saving money and its not just a gimmick!