Tempting Offers in Monsoon Sales? Shoppers, Watch Out for These Retail Tricks
Tempting Offers in Monsoon Sales? Shoppers, Watch Out for These Retail Tricks
Before you fill your cart with discounts and deals, learn the psychology behind sale signs and how to shop smart this monsoon.
The monsoon sale season is kicking off across India, with showrooms and online platforms flaunting signboards that scream “Flat 60% Off,” “Buy One, Get One Free,” and more. From grocery stores and textile shops to electronics and luxury brands, the offers are everywhere — and they’re tempting. But before you swipe your card or scan that QR code, here’s what you need to know: not every deal is as good as it looks.
1. Price Anchoring: The Oldest Trick in the Book
Shops often show a product’s original price as much higher than what it usually sells for. This inflated “MRP” is then slashed during sales, making the discount seem massive. But in reality, the product may rarely, if ever, have been sold at that original price. Always cross-check online or at other stores to see the actual market value before assuming it’s a steal.
2. Double Discounting: Sounds Great, But Do the Math
Some signs advertise “Extra 30% Off on 50% Discounted Price.” It may sound like you’re getting 80% off, but it’s not. A ₹1,000 item first drops to ₹500 (50% off), and the next 30% applies on ₹500 not the original price. That brings it to ₹350, which is a 65% overall discount, not 80%. So check what’s being discounted — the original price or the already reduced one.
3. The Decoy Strategy
This tactic involves placing a highly overpriced item next to a product the seller wants to promote. In comparison, the second item seems like a bargain even if it’s still overpriced. You’re being nudged to make a choice based not on actual need or value, but on perceived savings.
4. Emotional Traps
Bright sale signs, upbeat music, and limited-time offers are all designed to trigger emotions, not logic. You may walk in for a small item and walk out with a full shopping bag — and an empty wallet. To avoid this, make a list before heading out and stick to your budget.
5. Attitude to Discounts: Beware of the ‘Free’ Mentality
Buy-one-get-one-free offers often lead us to buy more than we need. Think carefully: do you really need two of the same shirt or snack pack? Sometimes, buying one at full price elsewhere or waiting for a genuine markdown is a better choice.
How to Outsmart the Sale: A Quick Checklist
– Compare prices across platforms before buying.
– Stick to your list, don’t let flashy signs distract you.
– Don’t fall for pressure tactics like “Only 2 left in stock.”
– Avoid shopping when emotionally drained or stressed it fuels impulse purchases.
– Track your total spend, discounts add up, but so do expenses.
Monsoon sales can be a great time to grab genuine bargains if you shop with awareness. Retailers use smart psychological tactics to increase sales, but with a little caution and smart math, you can enjoy the season without falling into their traps.
