4 Ways Gen Z Can Save Money at Big-Box Stores
Written by
Justice Petersen
Edited by
Jenna Klaverweiden
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In recent years, large retailers have revamped their marketing so that they cater more to Gen Z audiences. For instance, Walmart is relaunching its young women’s apparel brand No Boundaries, which features trends and styles that resonate more with Gen Zers. Well-known stores and brands, like Target, H&M and Marc Jacobs, have started utilizing TikTok and social media influencers to help reach more consumers — particularly those in the Gen Z age group — and get them to spend more money at their stores.
While these marketing ideas are sure to bring in more Gen Z shoppers, it’s important for them to know how they can take part in shopping at these stores and buying the products they want while still saving money.
Set a Budget and Stick To It
One of the best ways to save money while shopping is to maintain financial discipline. Staying true to your budget can ensure you don’t exceed your limit and spend only what you can afford. Gen Zers can use budgeting apps, such as Mint or YNAB, to help them stick to their financial goals. To spend within your budget, one of the most important things is to avoid impulse buying.
“Marketing tactics can be tempting, but Gen Zers can save money by making shopping lists and sticking to them,” said Brendon McCullough, founder and managing director of Dealhack. “Avoiding impulse buys and focusing only on what they truly need helps in maintaining financial discipline.”
Another thing to avoid, which retailers often enforce in their marketing schemes, is the fear of missing out — more popularly known as FOMO. That can pressure shoppers into unnecessary purchases. Gen Zers should make note of marketing strategies that instill a sense of urgency and lead to impulse buying. Instead of giving into impulses, Gen Zers should do their own research.
“Before making a purchase, reading reviews and doing thorough research can prevent buying subpar products and ensure they get the best value for their money,” McCullough said. “Websites like Consumer Reports and product reviews on retailer sites can provide valuable insights.”
Understand the Marketing Tactics
It’s also beneficial for Gen Z shoppers to be aware of what marketing tactics retailers might use to get them to buy a product. Big-box retailers are beginning to use social media influencers, targeted ads and trendy products that appeal to Gen Z’s interests.
Gen Z shoppers can make more informed purchasing decisions if they approach these marketing strategies with a critical eye.
Buy Generic or Store Brands
Whether you’re buying skin care products, grocery items or household necessities, one way to save money at big-box stores is to opt for the store brands. Big-box stores often offer both name-brand and store-brand items. The name-brand items usually cost more than the generic versions, yet it’s very often that both options yield the same quality and results.
“Gen Zers can save money by opting for these alternatives,” McCullough said. “For instance, Target’s Up & Up and Walmart’s Great Value brands provide excellent value.”
Take Advantage of Discounts and Promotions
Lastly, Gen Z shoppers can save money at big-box stores by utilizing the sales that they offer.
“Patience can be a great money-saving strategy,” McCullough said. “Gen Zers should wait for major sales events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday or seasonal sales where retailers often offer substantial discounts.”
By subscribing to newsletters or following retailers on social media, Gen Z shoppers can learn about exclusive sales that a store has coming up so they can know the best time to go shopping.
“By combining these strategies, Gen Zers can take advantage of the new marketing approaches by major retailers without compromising their savings goals,” McCullough said.
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