Holiday Spending

Shopping and Retail News

Shoppers push back on tougher return policies

Stores charging higher return fees and shortening the window for returns

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Shoppers are spending big this holiday season, but returns are rising, creating tension between retailers and consumers.

Stores like Saks and Zara now charge return fees and shorten return windows to combat rising costs and return fraud, which accounted for nearly 14% of all returns in 2023, up from 10.4% the previous year.

Retailers are working to balance stricter policies with better customer experiences as returns continue to grow.

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    Target's post-holiday sale boasts 50% off in many departments

    Consumers can save on beauty, home goods, clothes, and more

    The holiday sales haven’t ended even though the holidays have. If you’re looking to stock up for next year’s holiday season, or pick up some last-minute gifts, there are opportunities to do so. 

    Target has announced its annual post-holiday Clearance Run, where consumers can score 50% off in nearly every department. 

    “We know our guests love hunting for deals at the end of the holiday season, and The Target Clearance run makes it even easier for them to wrap up their shopping and start the new year with budgets on track,” said Jill Sando, Target’s chief merchandising officer. 

    “With savings on thousands of items, there’s something for every guest – whether they’re looking for belated gifts, prepping for New Year’s celebrations, getting a head start on holiday decor for next year, or spending a holiday a gift card. Now is a great time to wander the aisles at your local Target store and discover something special.” 

    Save on clothes, decor, toys, and more 

    What’s part of the latest sale at Target? Thousands of items in several departments. 

    Here’s a look at the Clearance Run sale: 

    • Up to 50% off: 

      • Select jewelry and accessories

      • Select toys, including games, dolls, and plush 

      • Select clothing and shoes for the family 

    • 50% or more off: 

      • Holiday decor

      • Holiday family sleepwear

      • Beauty gift sets

    • 30% of more off: 

      • Select holiday candy 

    Some of the discounts include: 

    • Mini Flap Satchel Handbag: $21.25

    • Twisted Cupchain Statement Necklace: $14.44

    • Butterfly Cord and Ear Pendant Necklace Two-Piece Set: $12.75

    • Plaid Fleece Matching Family Pajama Pants: $8.50

    • Women’s Matching Family Thermal Pajama Pants: $12.75

    • Solid Woven Chenille Throw Blanket: $21.25

    • The Perfect 10 Cosmetic Brush Gift Set: $8.50

    • EcoTools Loofah: $2.50

    • Kinetic Sand Snowy Surprise Playset: $4.24

    • Minnie Mouse Kids’ Plush: $25.49

    Shoppers can access the sale both in-store and online, as well as with in-store pick-up and curbside pick-up orders. 

    Consumers also have more opportunities to save when they join Target’s free rewards program, Target Circle. 

    The holiday sales haven’t ended even though the holidays have. If you’re looking to stock up for next year’s holiday season, or pick up some last-minute gi...