What Happens to Retail After Christmas?

We have entered the waning days of 2012.  You might like to know what we do in this transitional period between Christmas and Valentine's Day.
First, we have the After Christmas Sale.  It is the time that we take a serious look at all of the merchandise and candy we have been carrying in our store.  We have to say good bye to some of the lines we have ordered but for whatever reason, just didn't go over with our customers.
I have written about the "long good bye" retailers who cherish certain gift lines must go through.  When we put the 50% signs up on our shelves and displays, we always get the question from several customers:  "Are you going out of business???"
So let's put a stop to that rumor.  All retailers put merchandise on sale at this time of the year.  All retailers bring in new merchandise in January.  All retailers look forward to seeing their stores through fresh eyes.  No, we aren't going out of business.  We are in the business of retail!!
Another curious thing is that no one wants to buy candy at half-price. What that means is that up until the holiday, candy is full price.  After the holiday, the same candy is half price.  It is always interesting to see customers reaction to half-price candy.  It is the same candy as yesterday but it no longer appeals to the customer.  Want a chocolate bar?  Why not buy it at half-price?
How about those customers who rush in close to Christmas and tell us that what they ordered on line (1) didn't come (2) came but was damaged (3) came but was disappointing.....etc. and now they are frantically shopping locally to find a gift for people on their list?  I have discussed the principle of Shopping Locally.  There is nothing more to be said about that.
What about the customers who ask you before Christmas if something in your store will be on sale after Christmas?  I have to admit that I occasionally chuckle when I hear that question.  The answer is simple:  if it is still in our store after Christmas and if it is a Christmas item, for sure it will be on sale.  Take your chances that it will be here when you come in on December 27.
Soon we are off to the Gift Market, to search for all those treasures that we hope will be sold out on December 24, 2013.  It is fun and exciting, but it is definitely work.  There is no crystal ball in retail.  We take our chances.  And we recommend to our customers that if you see something you want, buy it when you see it.  It may not be there when you return to the store.
Happy New Year.  Our doors are open and we hope to see you often in 2013!!