It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Too soon? Hear me out…
It’s about that time of the year. Holiday shopping! Black Friday, typically kicks off the holiday shopping season into full throttle. Last year, many of us were force to shop online. The convenience of shopping from the couch in pajamas while avoiding long lines was delightful. All though some folks found it to be restricting. Unfortunately, this year a number of factors are going to make things a little bit more complicated. Well, a lot more complicated. Supply and demand, health and safety concerns, shipping, and price increases are all contributing to this global disaster. Retailers are warning consumers to be prepared as the holiday shopping season is kicking off.
Couriers, such as UPS and FedEx, are usually the villain when it comes to shipping delays. Although, it’s just not that simple. There are a lot of contributing factors that caused record breaking delays during this pandemic. Supply and labor shortages and backlogged ports-just to name a few. Retailers are feeling the hit of lost revenue. Amazon reported massive loss due to the shortages in labor and consumer goods in the third quarter. Productivity and manufacturing already took at hit in 2020, but now experts are predicting an uptick in “Out of Stock” messages by 172%. Clothing will take the biggest hit, followed by sporting goods, baby products, and electronics.
A couple of weeks ago, President Joe Biden launched an effort to ease supply chain blockages and avoid stock-outs ahead of the holiday season. According to CNBC, major delivery providers and retailers including FedEx, UPS, Walmart, and Home Depot, have committed to working extended hours.
Be Prepared
In the meantime, we as consumers can heed the retailer’s advice and prepare. Make a game plan and make it early. Like, now! Start with a solid list. Actually write down who will be gifted this Christmas. As you review the list, research what gift you are considering to purchase for that specific loved one. Remember, we are battling low stock and inflated prices. We need to be deliberate when choosing gifts. Make sure it fits the recipient aesthetic and vibe, especially with luxury and fashion gifts. With the supply struggles, you may not get another shot.
Purchase luxury responsibly. In the world of luxury, it is best to be strategic and thoughtful when purchasing designer items. In this year’s luxury gift guide, I wanted to make shopping for loved ones extra easy. I don’t know about you, but with the shopping disaster this year, I welcome all the help I can get.
On my Youtube channel, you will find gift ideas grouped into price brackets. Saving for expensive purchases is key to luxe responsibility. Therefore, I started with the highest price point first. The more time to save the better. Happy shopping!