ABILENE, Texas — Thanksgiving falls late this year, compressing the holiday shopping calendar and intensifying the pressure on consumers to grab deals quickly.
Experts caution that retailers often exploit this rush, targeting shoppers who already feel compelled to buy.
Experts warn of retailer tactics exploiting holiday rush, urge budgeting discipline (SBG)
“They put big sale items on, knock the prices way down, and get people to come in the store and spend more than they can afford” said Stifel Financial Advisor, Frank Johnson.
Whether shopping in person or browsing online deals, everyone is a target.
Experts warn of retailer tactics exploiting holiday rush, urge budgeting discipline (SBG)
“It’s so much easier to spend more than you really meant to,” said Johnson.
Financial advisors emphasize the importance of setting a spending limit before shopping.
“You’ve got to be disciplined to sit there and say—this is how much I have to spend. I can’t spend more than this,” advised the financial expert.
Experts warn of retailer tactics exploiting holiday rush, urge budgeting discipline (SBG)
The challenge, experts say, lies in psychology. Holiday deals trigger a neurological response, making it easy to overspend.
“The euphoria you get buying things on sale is real,” said Johnson. “It’s a dopamine boost. It makes you feel better.”
To combat the temptation and keep spending in check experts recommend mapping out a budget, carrying cash, and avoiding excessive credit card use.
