The days following Christmas are prime time for bargain hunters. But getting the most out of the post-Christmas sales whirlwind can be tricky. With these tips and tricks, it’s time to maximise your savings and understand the psychology behind these deals to stay on top of the silly consumer season.
New Zealand has a population of slightly more than 5 million people, yet it ranks as the 48th largest eCommerce market in the world. As of 2023, there are 12,805 online shopping businesses in New Zealand, an increase of 8.8% from 2022. Electronics is the largest market, accounting for 29.1% of the New Zealand eCommerce revenue. Retail sales volumes slowed to NZ$4,811 ($2,900) per person in the third quarter of 2023, according to Statistics New Zealand.
On holiday consumer behaviour
Many Kiwis have maxed out their budgets during the festive season, leading to a temporary dip in spending right after Christmas. Retailers capitalise on this by offering significant discounts to entice buyers back into stores. Post-Christmas spending fatigue is real, so if this period of the year is tiring for you, know you’re not alone.
Gift returns and exchanges are one crafty way to jump through the holiday hoops you need to. Unwanted or ill-fitting gifts create a surge in returns and exchanges, and stores often mark down returned items to clear inventory quickly. In the same line of thinking January is traditionally a clearance month for retailers, making it a great time to snag deals on winter clothing, holiday decorations, and other seasonal items.
New Year’s resolutions like getting healthy or organized can influence post-Christmas purchases as well. Look for discounts on gym memberships, fitness equipment, or home organisation products.
Top tips and tricks to maximise savings
Before diving into the post-Christmas shopping frenzy, it’s crucial to do your research and compare prices across various stores and online retailers. Setting a budget goes hand in hand with this, key to preventing overspending, especially after the pre-Christmas splurge.
When it comes to finding a focus and making the gifts count, prioritise your needs by honing in on items you genuinely need or have been wanting. A good deal is only worthwhile if the item is necessary to you, after all. To secure the best deals, start shopping early, as popular items and discounts tend to vanish quickly.
To rattle off some more ideas, consider exploring online options for even deeper discounts, and don’t forget to check clearance sections for significant savings, too. Be proactive and negotiate politely, particularly at smaller stores or for slightly damaged items. Signing up for loyalty programs and mailing lists can provide exclusive discounts and early access to sales while using coupons and vouchers
enhances your savings. Patience is key—some stores may host multiple sales throughout January, so waiting for the best deals pays off.
On mentally staying poised to maximise the Christmas shopping period, dress comfortably for the shopping adventure, bring a friend for both fun and budget accountability, and take breaks to avoid fatigue and impulse purchases. Stay informed by keeping an eye on store flyers, social media channels, and websites for the latest deals.
Being a Good Customer During the Busy Shopping Season
New Zealand is known for its friendly people and high-quality products, making it a great place to shop. However, being a five-star customer goes beyond just making purchases. It’s about contributing to a positive shopping experience for everyone. Here are some tips on how to be a five-star customer in New Zealand.
During peak shopping times, lines can be lengthy, and stores may be crowded. Patience is a virtue in such situations, and it’s essential to understand that the staff is working diligently to serve everyone efficiently. A considerate approach contributes to a positive atmosphere for both customers and store employees. You can circumvent this inconvenience by planning ahead though…
Effective communication plays a pivotal role in shaping a positive shopping experience. Clearly express your needs and inquire about any questions you may have. This not only streamlines the shopping process but also helps the staff provide you with better assistance.
Respect is the cornerstone of a harmonious shopping environment. Extend politeness, use appropriate language, and treat fellow customers and staff with kindness and consideration. Remember, fostering a respectful atmosphere benefits everyone involved.
Beyond individual considerations, contributing to the local economy by supporting New Zealand’s talented artisans and small businesses adds a unique touch to your shopping experience. Discovering one-of-a-kind products not only benefits you but also uplifts the local community.
After completing your shopping journey, take a moment to leave a review. Your feedback can play a significant role in helping businesses enhance their service quality and can also serve as encouragement for others to explore and shop at the same establishments. In this way, you become an integral part of shaping a positive shopping culture. Happy shopping!
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