During autumn sale seasons, retailers sometimes rely on marketing tricks and push what looks like a real discount but isn’t. A financial advisor from the X5 Package service explained this to socialbites.ca.
The expert notes that shoppers can tell genuine price drops from deceptive ones by paying attention to several cues.
He recommends tracking prices in advance of a sale. By watching how a product’s price changes, consumers can spot when a discount is just a façade.
“Some sellers raise prices before a sale to create the illusion of a steep discount. It’s easy to spot when you come prepared and compare the price history of the items you’re considering,” the advisor advised.
He added that during a sale, a popular bike model might appear to be 60 percent cheaper than on regular days, yet the final price may still be inflated after counting extra charges or fees.
According to the advisor, retailers sometimes tag items as discounted after already bumping their prices two or three times earlier. This is common with inexpensive goods where the rise isn’t immediately noticeable: cosmetics, household items, and dishes are typical examples. In addition, some outlets move outdated or least-sold stock to make room for newer collections.
The expert explained that discovering the real price often means comparing prices across multiple stores, including those online and in physical locations.
A warning was issued about the advertising gimmicks marketers deploy during sale periods, designed to create a sense of urgency and fear of missing out.
Messages like “today only,” “final day,” or “act now” push shoppers toward impulse buys and can trigger unnecessary spending, sometimes running into tens of thousands of rubles worth of purchases. The recommendation is to stay calm and deliberate.
“There’s no need to rush into a purchase because something is cheap. Promotions end, but there will always be more opportunities, and you can buy later when you actually need it. Take a moment to pause, consult with family or friends, and re-evaluate your plan for at least one hour before committing to a big buy,” the advisor suggested.
In conclusion, the adviser urged skepticism toward unknown sellers, even if their prices look attractive. For larger investments, it’s wiser to favor well-known brands and established retailers. This approach helps reduce the risk of deception, faulty products, and discounted items that aren’t truly a bargain. Online fraud during sales is also common: never click on links from unfamiliar numbers or accounts, and avoid responding to unsolicited messages.
Overall, careful preparation and a measured approach can transform a chaotic shopping season into a safer, smarter experience for shoppers worldwide, not just in bustling markets where prices can swing dramatically.