Wednesday, January 13, 2016

By Barbara Pronin
The holidays are over and retailers are left with lots of merchandise they want to sell or need to sell to make room for spring goods. That can mean bargains galore for careful shoppers.

The deal mavens at dealnews.com suggest some of the greatest bargains are available on the following types of merchandise:

Fitness equipment – January is when many people resolve to lose weight, so retailers are heavily discounting fitness and sports equipment – often as much as 50 percent. Look also for discounts on gym memberships, if that’s what you would prefer.

Winter apparel – Mild weather in most of the country has left retailers with more winter goods than usual. Look for clearance bargains on outerwear, including ski clothes, for the whole family.

Christmas décor – From outdoor lighting to Christmas cards, wrap and tree trimming décor, you won’t find better deals than these. Dollar stores are blowing out Christmas wrap for as little ten cents per roll. Stock up!

Televisions – The consumer electronics show takes place this month in Las Vegas, so retailers will be heavily discounting last year’s models. Keep an eye on prices now, although rock bottom deals may not happen until early February..

Kitchen, bed and bath linens – The January white sales introduced early in the last century are still taking place today. Look for major savings on all manner of bed linens, towels and table coverings.

Home furniture and mattresses – New furniture collections are introduced in February, so January is a good time to seek the best buys on furniture and mattresses.

Outdoor grills – Again to make room for spring’s new models, this is the best time to find a bargain on grills and accessories.

Vacations – Cruise and travel companies are competing now to win your summer vacation business. Look for sales and bargains and be prepared to negotiate for even greater savings for the travel deals of your dreams.

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