Holidays
Pressure Is On For Retailers
Markdowns have already started as stores cast about to make the most of lean holiday season
Sunday, September 15, 2002
Jenny Strasburg
San Francisco Chronicle
Right now, he said, it's loud in there.
Of 850 U.S. consumers polled by Dvorkin's organization recently, 15 percent said they'll spend less money this holiday because they're earning less. And 70 percent said they'll spend less because of accumulated debt.
"Last year, people were spending to make themselves feel better or make others feel better," Dvorkin said. "This year, there may be some conservative holding back. On the other hand, people always spend more than they hoped to." Abundant bargains
Unemployment, weak spending, warm weather and fierce competition in some apparel categories -- combined with a shorter holiday shopping season and other factors -- could mean sweet deals now through year's end.
Where to look: Jewelry -- a weak economy has slowed sales. Denim -- there's fierce competition and an abundance of inventory. Sweaters, turtlenecks, fleece -- racks still packed due to warm weather. Flat-screen TVs -- cheaper-to-make new models are flooding market. Digital cameras -- prices rival those of traditional cameras. Sneakers -- waning demand pushes prices down. Computers -- PC prices at historic lows; rebates are popular. Halloween, Thanksgiving decor -- retailers hope to jump-start holiday buying. Barbecue grills, garden items -- excess inventory left from summer.
