Discount Outlets

Answer 1

Are you a member of a discount outlet? I’m sure you know the type of store to which I refer. They tend to be large warehouse stores with giant steel racks of everything from jewelry and luggage to groceries in bulk packages. These types of stores generally charge an annual membership fee. Once you’ve paid for the membership you’ve earned the privilege of shopping at the discount outlet and buying things at their advertised low prices. Buyers should beware however. Not all items are cheaper at the discount outlets than they are elsewhere. In fact, many things can be quite costly. These stores make their money by buying (and selling) in volume. That’s why you often are required to purchase your items in bulk. It may give you a cheaper unit cost, but how long will it take you to go through your 40 pack of toothbrushes? Do these discount outlets save most people money over time? That depends on how they are used. One must take into consideration the membership fee that is charged. If you pay an annual fee of $40 to join the club, are you recouping at least that much in savings? One tip I’d offer is not to buy everything at the discount outlet. As I’ve already pointed out some things are cheaper while others are more expensive than shopping at your local grocery store. So monitor prices closely. Should you be tempted to buy in bulk make sure you will use the entire package before it goes bad. If buying large packages at a discount works for you but you have a smaller household, you may want to consider teaming up with another household. If two households share the membership fee they automatically reduce their “profitability hurdle” by half. Also, perishables that come in large quantities can be split with less fear of waste. Discount outlets can be a bargain but you must be careful you don’t buy things you don’t need or pay a premium over grocery store prices.