Desperate Retailers Work for Your Money

By Kendra Gilbert on June 30th, 2009

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Let the ass-kissing begin. With sales down, retail stores are desperate to keep customers happy…and they are doing nearly anything for a buck.

Ok, well, not anything. But, retail stores are making a lot of changes, mostly to benefit you, the loyal customer. Basically, stores are giving the customer anything they want: lower prices, targeted merchandise and enhanced customer service. But all this change begs the question, why did it take a recession for stores to start doing all this? Shouldn’t they have been doing this from the start?

Lower prices are everywhere, from Saks, to Target, to Coach, who is now offering a larger selection of handbags for under $300. And, I know every time I pass the Miss Sixty store on Melrose, I can’t help but notice the signs that reads, “Come shop our new prices.” But if these high-end brands start making their products available to more people, doesn’t it hurt the brand’s image. Part of the thrill of owning a Coach bag is knowing not everyone can afford it. Like it or not, it’s true.

For those of you who demand to be waited on hand-and-foot in every store, now is the time to break out the wallet and start shopping. You’re sure to be treated like a queen by rabid sales associates desperate for your dollar.

Then there’s the downside. Stores will be ordering less merchandise and fewer brands. That means, if you see a dress you like and there is only one in your size, you’re left with the panicked decision to buy it now or wait and hope it’s still around when it goes on sale a few weeks or months from now. Decisions, decisions.

The power is in your hands and stores are dying to please. Go out there and see if you can capitalize on the retail desperation. Power to the people!