The day after Christmas is informally known as “National Return Day.” Although returns are fairly common throughout the year, they are much more prevalent during the holidays- especially directly after Christmas.
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Many are expected to flood stores today to return or exchange the unwanted gifts they received yesterday.
“I came to the Avenues Mall in Jacksonville because I needed to exchange a few shirts for my grandsons,” said Vicki Burns.
According to the National Retail Federation, store owners expect returns to be 17% higher right now.
“I don’t blame people. If you’re not going to use it or if it doesn’t fit, it’s better to put it right back so somebody else might buy it,” said Brenda Smith, a St. George, Georgia resident.
The National Retail Federation states that 2024 will total out with $890 billion worth of returned merchandise. Today is expected to be a good chunk of that overall projection. However, many shoppers told Action News Jax that December 26th can also mean more shopping at half of the price.
Jacksonville resident, Forrest Sherrill said he rushed to the Avenues Mall to grab a birthday gift for his wife and to check out after Christmas sales.
Our consumer advisor Clark Howard suggests waiting until the new year, specifically the first week of January to return items you do not need or want. He said you will avoid the crowds and long lines, and possibly take advantage of merchandise at marked down prices. He also advises you not to wait too long, with many retailers enforcing stricter return policies and deadlines.
The NRF expects sales this holiday season to be almost 3% higher than in 2023.
if you are at the mall to shop, return items or do both— retail experts say 2024 will set another holiday shopping record.
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