Retail observations [View all]
I think we might benefit from an ongoing OP on what DUers observe in their retail shopping because it highlights slow moving merchandise, or even recession. Recall what empty shelves told us.
Uncharacteristically I shopped in NJ today. I went to ALDI and Kohl's.
In ALDI I found prices lower than when I shopped last week at ALDI's in PA. Sardines were 4 cents cheaper in NJ, and I saw several items that were 10-20 cents lower than in PA. These were regular prices, not the red sticker reduced price markdowns. Potato Chips, which clocked at $2.09 for many months, were something like $1.89. Maybe they just keep the price high for football season?
Kohl's was a real eye opener. When I entered the store a manager was handing out today only $5 off anything in the store. There were very few restrictions. I spotted BigOne, a Kohl's brand I believe, Standard Bed Pillow at $3.99. I could have used the coupon to buy one, it would have been free. So I bought 2 because they've been on my list for awhile. 2 for $7.98 plus tax. Total was $3.18. For two standard pillows. I would have been dumb to walk away.
That type of discounting indicates to me retailers in panic mode preparing for recession, OR that it's been a very very very slow few weeks and they need to pay the rent. Surely Kohl's lost money on that deal, but they moved a large bulky item that is overstocked at the moment.
What do you see in your retail visits?
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