"Sales" do not always offer good bargains

"Sales" do not always offer good bargains

The end-of-year holiday shopping bonanza is soon to arrive.
Shops, department stores and traditional marketplaces have become
more colorful than usual.

Signs of big discounts, some of up to 70 percent, have been
placed at most department stores. Coupon savings given to
frequent customers have also become even more attractive at this
time of year.

The "buy three get one free" selling strategy has also been
made available in many shops.

This year, Idul Fitri, Christmas and New Year will take place
within the last two weeks of December. No wonder retailers will
try to make anything possible to take advantage of the expected
shopping spree.

For Muslims, it has almost become a ritual to buy new stuff
for the whole family before celebrating Idul Fitri, which marks
the end of the fasting month. They will also buy clothes for
their relatives or needy people as part of the holiday
festivities.

Non Muslims will not feel left out though, as they will be
busy buying presents and provisions for Christmas and New Year.

Yes, it is a good time for shopping. But stay cool and don't
panic. Although the discount offers are tempting and alluring, be
cautious, as a sale price is not always the best price.

Some merchants may offer the sale price on the item you want
for a limited time; other merchants may discount the item you
want for an unlimited period. To make it safe, it is better to
shop around before making your decision. The Chinese proverb,
"visit three shops before making a purchase," might be a good
reminder so as not to make a mistake.

Make sure the big discount offered by retailers is not a
commercial gimmick. Some merchants will match or even beat their
competitors' prices, so it is therefore important to read the
retailer's pricing policy carefully. It may not apply to all
items.

Another important consideration before you go on a buying
spree is that you have to plan ahead with your purchase. Set a
realistic budget and stick to it. Also, make a list of things you
want to buy. This will help you avoid buying on impulse clothes
or gifts that might be inappropriate or too expensive.

Before making a purchase, it is also important for you to ask
the merchant about its refund and exchange policy. A store is not
obliged to accept items for refund or exchange unless the item is
defective or had been misrepresented.(Hendarsyah Tarmizi)