For many people, January is a time to recover after the holidays. For others, it’s the best time to shop for some of the deepest discounts retailers offer.
In January, many stores, from big-box stores to small boutiques, discount merchandise to move holiday inventory and make space for new seasonal items. This gives customers an opportunity to get great deals on a number of items. This is especially helpful for shoppers who are patient and want to stock up for the next holiday season for themselves and their families.
Here are the four biggest reasons to shop for holiday gifts in January.
Huge Markdowns
Every year, retailers host after-holiday sales to boost revenue during one of their slowest months. So, while the holiday season may be the busiest time for retailers, January is when the bargain hunters can really shine. That’s because stores get rid of excess merchandise that didn’t sell for the holidays.
Some examples of items customers can get at a discount include small electronics, kitchen appliances, winter clothing, Christmas decorations, and beauty gift sets. Customers should check with their favorite retailer to see when after-Christmas sales go live, as each store has a different schedule.
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Shop Without the Competition
Another reason January is a great time to shop is that there is less competition for popular items. Many items that sold out before the holidays come back in stock in January. So, if customers missed out on a special toy, game, or popular clothing item they wanted to gift themselves or their kids, they might have more luck finding it on the shelves in January. Plus, they don’t have to pay a huge markup for it or search for it in the secondary market.
A Chance To Use Gift Cards
Many people receive gift cards as holiday gifts, and January is the perfect time to use them. According to data from Capital One Shopping Research, 43% of adults have gift cards they haven’t used yet, totaling a whopping $23 billion. So, for those who have a stash of gift cards to use, shopping in January is a good way to ensure they use them (and don’t lose them!)
Build a Gift Stash
Finally, when customers shop sales in January, they have an opportunity to purchase items they can keep in a year-round gift stash. Gifts like toys, lotion, candles, and even candy can make gift-giving easier throughout the year. As a bonus tip, customers should also search for neutral-colored, gift-wrapping supplies on sale. That way, their gift closet is fully stocked for the entire year.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 4 Reasons Why January Is the Best Time To Shop for Holiday Gifts
