Cashing in on Christmas in July

Shirley Norling
It's hot out there to say the least. Our air conditioners are running in over drive. Meteorologists are predicting this will probably be one of the hottest years on record nationwide. We just barely got the covers off our swimming pools and our boats out of winter storage. You'd never know it though by the retail market. "It's Christmas in July" The upcoming weekend is all abuzz with this frenzy. On Target.com Jul. 23 is Black Friday, normally held 4 months down the road, the day after Thanksgiving. I'm sure a bunch of other retailers will jump on that bandwagon before the week is over.

So tell me, why do we have to listen to Here Comes Santa Claus at the mall 5 months before Christmas? Why can't I find a sand pail or pair of shorts at the store without having to wade through the artificial Christmas trees that line the aisles in July? I worked in retail for a number of years and I know those items have to purchased months ahead of time. We used to be criticized for putting Halloween merchandise out right after Labor Day. Now if you don't have those Christmas lights and ornaments out the day after the 4th of July, you're not with the program. I know times have changed and maybe I'm still living in the "Dark Ages" as my grandsons sometimes tell me, but really isn't it just a little early to be promoting Christmas with this much force in July?

As bad as the economy is, you wouldn't think people would have the money to purchase these items 5 months before the actual Christmas holiday. I guess the retailers are banking somewhat on the fact that if they hit you with a good enough deal right now, you'll buy it and then buy more again as it gets closer to the actual holiday. I must admit this is a pretty good marketing ploy, to say the least.

Okay now, Scrooge has spoken her piece! All of you out there go and enjoy your "Black Friday in July". That way maybe when this old-fashioned grandma goes looking for Christmas bargains at Walmart, the day after Thanksgiving, I won't be run over by all of you trying to get that new Ipod at that remarkable price. Happy Shopping!

Source: Good Morning America
ABC news.com
Shirley Norling's personal opinion

Published by Shirley Norling

I'm semi retired, living in East Central Mn. with my husband. We have 2 sons and 4 grandsons. Writing has been a hobby of mine for years and finally I now have the time to pursue it. After my sons completed...  View profile

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  • Abby Greenhill7/23/2010

    Listening to let it snow is just what we need in this heat!

  • John Myers7/22/2010

    It's actually remarkable how these things come around earlier and earlier every year! School was just out three short weeks ago and already the "back to school" departments are all set up already. I need a pair of flip flops, too, but I can't find any out there, even though it's the middle of July, but sure as heck I can buy a winter coat if I want one. Too crazy!

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