How to make the most of summer sales in Spain: 9 hot tips for bagging a bargain
The dates, discounts and tips to help you shop smartly this summer
Summer sales season is back in Spain, and while the traditional dates used to be set in stone, these days the rules are a little more flexible. Since the government relaxed the regulations back in 2012, shops can decide for themselves when to start and finish their discounts, both in store and online.That said, many places are sticking with the usual schedule, beginning on July 1 and running through until August 31. However, the start and end dates vary by region.
In Madrid, for example, sales are already kicking off on June 21 and will last all the way until September 21. A few other regions, including Cantabria, the Basque Country, Galicia and Castilla-La Mancha, will keep sales going until September 30.
Big-name brands have also published their own start dates. The Inditex group, which includes Zara, Bershka, Pull&Bear and Stradivarius, will launch their discounts online on June 21, and in physical shops on June 22. El Corte Inglés will start theirs on the same day, both online and in store.
As for the bargains, discounts usually range between 30% and 50%, but they often go up as the summer goes on. In some cases, you could even see reductions of up to 70% by the end of the season.
Consumer organisations like OCU and Asecon are reminding people to stay smart during the sales. “It’s a good time to try to get some clothing and footwear purchases done early for children ahead of the next school year,” the OCU suggests.
They also remind shoppers that “in sales, prices are reduced, not rights” and that “the guarantees for a discounted product are the same as those for a non-discounted product”.
Asecon adds that it is important to “spend consciously and responsibly”, particularly at a time when many households are feeling the pinch.
“Avoid spending more than your family budget allows, especially in times of economic crisis and high inflation like the ones we are experiencing.”
To help you shop smarter this summer, here are a few tips:
- Make a list of what you actually need before heading out
- Set yourself a clear budget and stick to it
- Compare prices online before you buy
- Make sure the label shows both the original and sale price
- Watch out for damaged or outdated stock disguised as genuine sale items
- Keep the receipt in case you need to make a return
- Check your receipt after making your purchase to ensure the discount has actually been applied
- Try to pay in cash – it helps control spending
- Avoid shopping for the sake of it – impulse buys add up fast
Summer sales can be a great way to save on essentials and grab a few treats along the way. Just make sure you’re shopping with your head and not just your impulse!
Image: Markus Spiske/Unsplash
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