Outlets vs retail, and Winners prices: Sale fail? (CBC Marketplace)

[@hollyyoung3223]

I shop at Outlets all the time. I know it's not the same quality..but I can't afford to shop retail all the time. The stuff I have bought at the outlet lasts long enough for me..just take care of it and it shouldn't be an issue. If someone spots I have an outlet Kate Spade purse..kudos to them. I don't care. I buy what I like and what I can afford.

[@PedroBecerra97]

same, as long as it looks cute and I'm not spending too much I'm ok with whatever I get

[@joyfuljaj]

I agree, the consumer has to decide what he is willing to pay for the item they hold. I am not going to keep clothes for years on end anyway so I would rather spend less on slightly lower quality (as long as it fits and looks nice) because I will want something different in a couple years. I don't get rid of stuff after 1 season.

[@itscornrowsnotfrench-braid9280]

You're smart

[@Lemonade_Stand_]

Agreed.

[@NanaPelletier]

No matter where I shop, retail or outlet, you will find me at their clearance racks.

[@MaryAnnDunham]

I went to a Coach outlet and asked and the sales associate at the outlet told me that the outlet merchandise was not the same quality as the retail store. She was very honest.

[@dhylaYGfamily]

Unstuffing MaryAnn Dunham and usually the retail and the outle has different type of bag

[@rbeasley2049]

Unstuffing MaryAnn Dunham I have gotten returned coach bags from the mall stores at outlets. Great finds!

[@laurenolson4553]

Look at the serial number plate. If there is an X or a bullseye on the top then it was made for outlet!

[@MLMLW]

+Unstuffing - That's good to hear. Next time I go into a Coach Outlet and/or a Kate Spade Outlet I'm going to ask them the same question and see what answer I'm given. I live about 5 minutes away from both outlets.

[@lindadegriselles3953]

@@laurenolson4553 purchased from online Coach outlet. Serial plate shows no Bullseye or anything else different from retail bag purchase. Maybe, I lucked out?

[@Cappadonna72]

I'd be curious to know about the Nike outlet vs retail.

[@LAWoman323213]

G W. III I bought a pair of Nikes from the outlet store years ago. This was long before I was educated about the difference in quality. Nevertheless, I could tell they looked different from the ones at the Nike Store or Footlocker. There was something slightly off about the quality. At the time I didn’t really care because I was college age. I didn’t have a lot of money, and I only bought them for occasions trips to the gym.

[@samfabianpdx]

Same

[@vladshepard9178]

The outlet's nice for getting clearance Air Jordans, though they only get very few of the older styles that are left over so you'd have to be checking pretty frequently. Managed to get a pair of AJ XXXII "MVP" when Nike discontinued them, which was exceptionally lucky as only 2 sizes were available on the clearance wall. I also pretty often see some of the styles from Nike's online store at a cheaper price, but they're for the most part the least interesting colorways the brand would offer for a shoe. So it's a bit hit and miss but occasionally you could get lucky and grab something real nice.

[@unikittyproductions2797]

I’ve found the clothing is pretty much the same between outlet and retail, can’t say the same for the shoes

[@bobbobber4309]

With Nike I do think it's more of a destination for their lesser popular styles and slow movers. I see the same cheap nikes at the outlet for 29.99 that I see at TJMaxx for $39.99 and Kohls for $49.99. And the apparel....I find the exact same pieces at the retail stores as I had found in outlets....I do notice that I don't pay an incredible discount at the outlet...it's usually only about 20% less. Sometimes more...but not often. However that 20% is still better then paying full retail.

[@hallmonitor98]

so companies make their own knock offs

[@GRAVYRAQUEPz]

so people will encourage to buy the more expensive "original" one but either way its their gain for profits

[@systematic101]

Educated Melanin How is it messed up? A company isn't allow to make a cheaper version of their own products?

[@t-.-t.]

Thats brilliant idea. No wonder theyre billionares.

[@nadia1994ization]

Its not about making knock off its about telling people that they are saving but you are paying full price , you are paying a full price for a rubbish clothes ... even knock offs should be good quality and it is not ok to decieve people like that

[@jackjo2739]

1000th likes... 😂😂

[@finallyanime]

I'm impressed the guy in the beginning told the truth and said the quality was a bit different at j.crew

[@Utuberd0]

Honest and fired, hahaha!

[@ronald4life1]

+Austen Skylar They should have given that guy some praise for his honest selling!

[@zochbuppet448]

+ronald4life1 they should of disguised his voice for being Honest

[@ronald4life1]

+Zoch Buppet no doubt!

[@thesefouryears]

+Austen Skylar Umm... why would he be fired? It's not a secret that the material / quality is different? Anyone can literally tell, it's common sense...

[@imranhisham908]

Summed it all up : "If it's too cheap, it was made to be cheap. So It Can be Cute, but it's not a bargain"

[@themodernhippie9736]

At least j crew was honest

[@sweetcupcake408]

I have bought a lot of stuff from the j crew factory store from several years ago, they are still in great condition.

[@digibotdotcom]

I felt like that salesman was the real hero of the video.

[@Donteatacowman]

@@digibotdotcom I paused to come down to the comments for this. 😂Of course he's not going to say "No, we only sell terrible products, thanks for asking"

[@andreaaldrich4046]

I don't understand why people care about something being retail or think they are getting some sale. Look at the item and determine what it is worth to YOU.

[@JoyofRVing]

Exactly! If it sparks joy, I buy it! I love my bags equally. I take care of them. I never put them on the floor whether I paid $1,000 or $30 for them. I buy some from retail, but mostly from outlet stores.

[@Yahsbsuq]

The problem is that a lot of people can't understand what makes something high quality, i.e stiching, material, fasteners... the issue with this is fast fashion. Often we buy things because they are cheap and we think we are getting a "deal" when really this low quality just results in us buying more stuff in the long run.

[@originalunoriginal4055]

@@JoyofRVing wow you have a $1000 handbag?

[@kiterafrey]

@@originalunoriginal4055 Some people do. My mother-in-law has a Louis Vuitton and it was $7500 and has lasted her more than 10 years.

[@Oceangirl1234]

I disagree if it’s going to fall apart I’d rather get something better

[@jmdjasonday]

I'm disappointed that I'm paying less and getting a lesser quality product.

[@aesinam]

Lol

[@lilascharmante2712]

🤣

[@lydiareyes8989]

payless and you get less too.

[@jmdjasonday]

@@lydiareyes8989 I was being sarcastic

[@MrJellybellylove]

what a ripoff!

[@rrosewaterr]

you get what you pay for, but if you're getting a good deal for slightly lesser quality what's the big deal? for example i got a $40 Kate Spade wallet at an outlet store and the "original higher quality" one was $250. I've been using for 4 years, its still in great condition and i get many compliments on it to this day. my taste in style will change before it'll ware down.

[@julijakeit]

I see your point. Some people will pay anything with a designer tag, even a knock-off and it's ok if that makes you happy. But when you pay 40$ expecting it to be worth 250$ for the brand which people see as a higher value, better quality, longer lasting items, when I would feel cheated. And that's what these scammers turned out to be. They mislead you with the 'outlet' sign instead of saying 'mass production'. It's like buying H&M wallet for 4$ with a name tag of Kate Spade. For some people even 40$ is a big money.

[@melissinha73]

I too shop at outlets and have purchased things over 10 years ago that are still in great shape. IMHO if it suits your needs and your budget AND stays in good shape, then it’s worth it.

[@enri74cv]

You said it perfectly and that is what outlet shopping is all about..they are not trying to scam anyone..

[@ellaquirimit7501]

0ElectricBlue

[@tacobella6474]

Right?! I bought a Coach purse from an outlet and THAT purse has lasted longer than my previous Coach purse from a retail store. Just because it's slightly lower quality doesn't make a difference for me idk, for something like purses. Makeup is a different story but still.

[@defyned]

I thought everyone knew this? Actually, even the quality in retail stores these days is low. I'm speaking to you Banana Republic!

[@blaircovington7821]

defyned I thought I was the only one who kept thinking BR was the cheapest quality in retail stores😅

[@destineeallen88]

Same...

[@ladyd7188]

H&M is worst.

[@sarared2292]

J crew. Banana republic club Monaco have high prices but actually have low quality. Initially it looks good feels good but you wash it it’s destroyed at H&M you pay cheap prices and they last as long as j crew stuff in my experience

[@ladyd7188]

@@sarared2292 club Monaco in my opinion is one of the best

[@Sydney-om5os]

After working at an outlet store in high school I told everyone the truth. Every once in a while we’d get a sweater or something from retail and the quality and style was much better than the outlet stuff. And the cheaper stuff was priced at 70$ and there was always a “sale” from 20-30% off to make you feel like you’re getting a better deal, but you’d still be paying more than you should.

[@biplav32]

You dont have to be smart to know this.Why would the same retailer sell the same product for less in one store and expensive in another?

[@traphereasy7095]

Lol

[@JessieBanana]

I think most people have the idea that outlets have left over stock and I do think that used to be the case. Now with online shopping most retailers can get rid of their leftovers online with supersales. Also, outlet shopping is so popular that there is no way that left over merchandise could meet the demand.

[@vrillco]

That's exactly it. Early outlet stores would set up in low-rent areas to liquidate overstocked goods. By reducing overhead and adjusting consumer expectations, this allowed them to still make a profit on something that would not have sold otherwise. The flea markets of yesteryear are a perfect example of this tactic. Modern outlet stores are a very different beast, really just a different imprint of the brand. It's not much different than Levi Jeans selling lower-quality products into Walmart to hit a lower price point, and thus capture a different market, one that would not pay for its full-priced flagship items.

[@KarinWilcox]

Back in the day before "retail" outlets became a thing it was a way for retailers to offload their off season items and items that didnt sell. They would offer them 1-2 seasons after their retail debut at a discounted price. If your seeing similar items at Retail as the Outlet you can be 100% sure they are NOT the same quality. I noticed this at the Coach outlet near me. While I do shop there I go their to look for the rare random retail returns that end up in their store. Very rare and usually they will only have 1 of that item and your best place to actually find them are in the clearance areas. The zippers, Lining and quality of leather are the big tells.

[@MrGoodsalesman]

I dont even buy a lot for outlets, I see their stocks and it just not that great, why would u pay any amount to something you dont like? Who are these sheeps?

[@cdcanada7182]

I just buy what I like. I don't buy stuff just to have a brand name. I am not obsessed with buying expensive stuff for its sake.

[@md8465]

me too

[@julijakeit]

Yea, buying quality these days mean looking beyond brand name and into what sort of thing you want to buy, what it's made of, how it's made and whether one should really buy it.

[@elizabethsomoza7109]

You and i both I do like good quality But designers dont pay me to advertise

[@milai2865]

YES! When people are shopping based on name and not preference/quality, they're really just scamming themselves.

[@jamforall]

I'm like you, girl; I buy stuff that will last.not the Old Navy, Banana Republic, gap wash and throw away garbage.All these two are owned by the same company. They just target different types of consumers.

[@cificare2184]

I often shop at Walmart, so the outlet is a step up for me.

[@rosiehernandez4194]

Same

[@denise8791]

Wal-Mart is getting better with their selection! It's great for kids stuff that they grow out of quickly. Unfortunately most of it isn't great to donate or resell after but if your kids arnt monsters like mine maybe you'll be able to donate after they out grow😂

[@samaanthag]

Walmart has completely unethical beliefs when it comes to who makes the clothing. A lot of child labour for disgustingly cheap wages

[@sarahwaters8262]

@@samaanthag I don't think anyone who shops at Walmart does so for their ethical stances. 🙄

[@indiashante1560]

I was shocked to see that Walmart is now selling Reebok apparel. but yes I'm a cheap person I buy my clothes from Walmart and usually my shoes from the outlets. Lol

[@Angelinabug]

The comparison for the Kate spade wallets is bogus. You can’t compare saffiano leather with pebbled leather, saffiano is supposed to last longer and appear more sturdy. At least buy wallets made of the same material and compare

[@divinediva_]

Exactly. You have to compare apples with apples.

[@Bruna-hv5nc]

Correct, and you find saffiano leather at a Kate spade in an outlet too.

[@kimhuy7021]

Bought a saffiano wallet from outlet was $130 but discount to $60 been using it for3+ years so I’ll just stick it outlet products. Why buy full price when u can get it for half price just saying

[@veehazan4788]

Absolutely correct and I bought a saffiano leather purse from the outlet and it is great.

[@bobbobber4309]

In my local outlets for coach and kate spade there is actually a corner of the store that houses "from retail store" items. They are often excluded from the "50% +20%" sales and more often like 30-50% off. Sometimes you can even find pieces in that area marked down even further. This is often due to pieces that aren't selling within the season or returned pieces...sometimes even slightly damaged. I got my friend a $700 bag from Kate spade retail at the outlet for $125...because one of the metal hoops connecting the bag to the strap had a small gouge in it. The sales associate pointed it out to me before I purchased. It wasn't even noticeable as it was inside the hoop. My friend had been seriously considering buying it at the mall the previous week! She couldn't believe I got it for her...she wouldn't accept it until I showed her the reciept and the small ding in the metal. She was so happy!!

[@petemorbius3936]

people buy the brand not quality. i.e if you want quality, better get a "no brand" real leather bag

[@monicamason3414]

I get no name purses all the time and they are well made and I get compliments on. Only when I buy Hello Kitty do I make sure it's legit. It's the only way I can be sure the quality is good. The knock off Hello Kitty is always poorly made.

[@petemorbius3936]

@@monicamason3414 haha.. hello kity

[@sarizonana]

So agree on this

[@balletdancernj6894]

Monica Mason Hello Kitty ☺️

[@jhoanecastilar3670]

Yes this is true. some good quality is not brand..

[@paolachavez499]

Honestly, you can fool anyone if you know how to dress well, so it doesn’t really matter if your paying a lot or less for a clothing item.

[@quangietran]

You have your point of view but mine is different. I shop for quality not quantity. I rather pay $340 for a prada boutique wallet and last me 7 years than a cheap wallet from a outlet for $99.99 only last for a year or so.

[@Shellyshocked]

I get everything as hand me downs by choice. I could buy brand new stuff but, there's so much waste in our world today why would I need to. I have been using the same purse for at least 8 yrs. The original price of that purse was around 10 dollars from Walmart from what my family member who gave it to me says. Cheaper things can last if you take care of them. Personally I'd rather use my extra cash to help others who have less than me. I could be a billionaire and I still wouldn't spend money like that. On occasion I'll buy myself something I like to eat as a treat but, even then I feel guilty spending money on myself.

[@rahnuma11]

Come on a 99.99 wallet lasts for more than a year lol! WTH you doing with your wallet??? Are you using it as a kitchen knife?? I have a 50 dollar wallet that has lasted me for 10 years lol.

[@uc136]

rahnumaTheGreat as in, I am going through the comments and just wondering how people can spend over 10 bucks on a wallet that you use between 2-3 times a day....😂😂😂😂😂340$

[@sarared2292]

Yes Growing up and my younger years I always bought big brands and wasn’t stylish now I wear mostly second hand and sometimes H&M and I feel so stylish.

[@StreetPeter]

I have a secret on how to save a fortune Don't buy unnecessary items.

[@ben_jamin4529]

Thanks tough guy

[@MarjolaineDaudrumez]

Loll that’s what my husband always tells me!!

[@Steffi.EchoGraphix]

BINGO......... simply as that

[@mimimena1127]

Lol, love it!

[@jamforall]

Save your money and don't buy any of it.

[@purpleahaze]

Why would people think that a fashion label would provide the same quality for a substantial lesser price at an outlet? If that was the case wouldn't people just ditch the retail? I though people knew that they are getting lesser quality for lesser price, no rip-offs.

[@80CGK]

Big deal 🙄🙄, what the fuss is about? I have been using this coach outlet bag from past 4 years everyday and it’s still in excellent condition and got that on sale. The quality is awesome and I don’t see any major difference with it when compared to a retail one. I would still love ❤️ to purchase all branded stuff from outlet rather than retail.

[@garinasantos2986]

I have bags from the outlets and look nice

[@3shayll]

To get your bargins, go to the retail store and shop at end of season, that is where you would get a deal on the real item, though it may be out of it's fad state then. Also a retail thing is to use percentages as oppose to dollar amounts, people tend to believe they are getting a better deal (instead of doing the math themselves). For example an item that is $10.00 on sale for $9.00 is better to advertise as 10% off instead of the dollar amount because people feel like they are getting a better deal. You need to be a smart shopper and not just believe in advertising. And learn to do the math that you thought was useless in school.

[@TrollBot.]

Judgment Proof That is true. Ive met rich people who donate their "out of style" clothes at Goodwill, but most people don't know!

[@fifinanti80]

I do that exact thing. Learned it when I work retail. Clothes and most items have about 6-8 weeks shelf life. I buy things that will withstand the times of fashion most of the time it's just a matter of a color difference and everything comes back in style anyway after a few years.

[@xandradice]

To do the math: If an item is 30% off, multiply the original price by .7 to get the new price.

[@darlahays2471]

Some items are paying/investing the money in for the quality. I have boots that I have had for 20 years and I'm still wearing. If it's a trend, I won't spend as much. Buy more quality less quantity.

[@mikepiccininni3091]

Gucci prices remain same year round

[@verodollforever1]

Yes I worked at Kate Spade outlet you get different lining inside the bag cheaper material .

[@prettyalina7237]

verodollforever1 thank you

[@naughtiasteffano9885]

I agree!! I shop at the actual Kate spade store! And the bags are completely different!

[@Digital111]

Was going to share this with my mom who loves outlets but then I thought, why??? If she's happy shopping for brands at outlets and hasn't had any problems quality-wise then why not just let her shop there without feeling bad? Ignorance is bliss sometimes and even if the quality is not as good as the "original" stuff, she hasn't complained about it wearing and tearing earlier than usual...

[@ashleighvinson5801]

Exactly

[@stanbalo]

Exactly. I think the price is just right. It is not a rip off of lesser quality items at orig price. They are priced lower bec of lower cost of the item

[@justlikehoney1859]

I think you should let her make the decision for herself, that’s love

[@absalonw007]

@@justlikehoney1859 her mom has no decision to make cuz she doesn't know. This lady has the decision to make and she made it, let her mom stay happy.

[@crystalv3686]

True.. I personally don’t really care. I do prefer retail for Kate spade ♠️ simply cause the leather looks better

[@bauman7962]

Outlets are all about phycology. They're purposely located in the middle of nowhere so that if you drive there you're almost forced to buy something. They want you to believe a item was ridiculously expensive-mark it down so you feel like you're getting a great deal, and lastly those huge 70% off sale signs are another trick they play

[@porschebeonit]

Shoot that is so true!! They are out in the middle of nowhere

[@shaina_2211]

Huh? In the U.S. outlet malls are in large cities.

[@jyang7391]

Big city like LA. Going to the Outlets is 10-30 min. More locations. Small city/town. Im looking at least 1 1/2 hrs away to small city like Tulare, Gilroy or Livermore.

[@leaillex]

Fy co lo gy

[@leaveearly3751]

@@jyang7391 10-30 minutes in LA? So I guess they are across the street?

[@faethedreamer]

"You didn't know?" She asks the random shoppers like she knew any better before asking an expert. So smug.

[@joylox]

I miss Sears Outlet, they were one of the only ones that actually had decent stuff. I got so much stuff there as a kid and teen. Some things you could tell were cheaper, but a lot of stuff was still good, just hard to find sizes as each item was more unique, not all items were in all sizes. But I think that made it fun.

[@piloepe8507]

🤣😂🤣 she felt "totally betrayed". Who doesn't know that the "compare at price" is not real??! Seriously! 🤣😂🤣

[@ApoloniaJones1976]

Piloe Pe Exactly. Oh, the melodrama.

[@bsdjkgf2939]

I still buy all my Coach from the outlet, I know it is lower quality, but it looks the same, and costs at least 50% less

[@ssq9984]

Yea to be honest i have a bag that is from the outlet i had it for a few years and is still great the quality and for a good price i dont regret buying it .

[@Pepperthecory]

I mean compare it to another retail bag and you can tell, but it's still a leather bag so... better than synthetic still

[@heatherdoute1558]

You can find retail bags and at Coach outlet. That said my outlet Coach has lasted just as long as my retail bag. I like the outlet because the patterns tend to be more colorful and fun.

[@helterskelter917]

My tj max coach bag is way better than retail ones! In retail the skin is thin and light, I was actually shocked..

[@christinareyes8330]

Michelle Rekuc yes that's true all my bags lasted long love them.

[@Anna-dp8lf]

i really hate this "it will last longer" at home I wear my fathers old pullover, that is probably hmmm 50 years old, and looks perfect. If not that they are in size L, i would wear them all winter long. Probably it was not cheap, but in 70s my father had maybe 2 or 3 sweaters in his wardrobe and he lived in mountains! Nowadays i have 10 sweaters (mostly made by myself), and none of them is so warm as the old one

[@mariannes.6023]

When everything or almost everything, wasn't made in China, and the raw materials were actually of a good quality, everything lasted longer. Clothing, shoes, kitchen appliances... Everything. Now we live in a disposable, fast Fashion World keep. People buy into it and then they complain. Go figure. Take good care of that sweater LOL. Best

[@thatxonexguy5438]

You can get them tailored

[@ChindoggOriginal]

i dont understand people's logic... you say you dont want to pay full price, yet want top quality goods... how is that logical?

[@pinkheart315]

ChindoggOriginal Thats why when i pay less i know the quality is less too. But im ok with it since I'm broke 😂 But yes when I pay more I expect it to be good quality. You know when it's sale time. Even the sale price is more than you pay for so people are willing to pay a bit more for a brand but turns out poor quality is sad. For example if I normally buy $10 clothes. I know quality is low. But if I want a good top that I know is $2000 but in sale is $1000 I would pay more than my budget $10 for the for brand. Normally I can't afford $1000 but I am for the brand. So if I don't get good quality it feels cheated. I thought it was cheap because end of year or month sale as they need to throw out what doesn't sale. People I think thought the same so of course they are upset😞

[@brianhsin678]

exactly. You can't expect Rolex with a Casio budget.

[@medodrama9487]

*because they are Fing made in poor third world countries by malnourished children and labourers and made for 95% less prices* Now you see the justification?

[@maibuimaibui]

I know! I never believe in the advertisements or anything I see. It’s “you get what you pay for” or even “most likely you are being ripped off”. It’s never “you are getting a great deal”. How do the company make millions or billions of dollars if they give you so much deals? Simple as that. But anyway, just because people believe in stuff too easily doesn’t make those criminal companies innocent.

[@paulaw418]

If you buy it after season you should get a good deal on quality merchandise.

[@steelsheen]

im old enough to remember when Outlet stores was a new concept, and back then they did sell for-retail items that often didnt sell in their retail stores. the thing is as time wore on, consumers would only window shop at the retail stores and wait for them to hit the Outlets before purchasing. which for major labels is a loss in profit (it doesnt matter what they actually spent to make that item and marked it up x10, they expected it to sell x10, not at the discounted price). but because Outlets became so immensely popular, labels started to create "for-outlet" only products to keep the money coming in, but not having to spend as much as they would knowing they would earn less for each item anyway. thats kinda the worst kept secret in the retail industry that i guess people who never worked retail a day in their life wouldnt know. and yes those "mark-down" prices? totally a psych trickery to get people to think they're saving more so that they would actually BUY. both physical shops and online stores are guilty of this. unless you actually remember or take a screenshot of the item and compare that to the actual "sale" price then thats the only time you can be sure you are actually saving money. and most of the time, the sale price is actually not much different from the previous regular price, sometimes the sale price is even higher than the actual previous regular price.

[@JustMe-gs9xi]

wow,, i think ur right.... i remember it used to alot of Out of season items at the outlet,,,, so Yes,,,im sure that's right.

[@ihazdaforks]

Not in Australia, here they can't specials the same price or higher because it's illegal and manipulative.

[@Laurtew]

I was literally just going to say pretty much the same thing. I remember in the early '80s when outlets were a new thing. People were a bit nervous to shop there, thinking they were getting damaged or unpopular stuff. The stores did a big campaign saying it was a seasonal rotation and the product was still in great shape, just you were looking at coats in July. Once people understood that, outlets took off. I got my bridesmaid dresses at an outlet in 1989. Full length gowns for $30 each. I was super excited. In the late 90s I went to an outlet store and realised exactly what you said; companies understood we were waiting to get a deal and then created cheaper knock-off products and sold them through outlet.

[@sp6990]

I agree. In 2001 I used to work at Club Monaco on 5th Ave. if we couldn’t fit merch into our stock room it would go straight to outlet while still being full price on 5th Ave. I went many times Bc it was an even better deal than our employee discount. They closed the outlet and never made a for outlet line. I did notice the other stores begin to carry for outlet only lines. Sad that ppl didn’t notice or care. They just wanted to wear the brand name. I wouldn’t accuse or companies are doing this just because their outlets. I would just really try to be educated as a consumer what a good quality product is and don’t pay for it if it isn’t whether at a discount or not.

[@rryase]

With such a range of prices now from thrift store, online, outlet and regular retail, I can't trust a brand name in itself anymore. I have to determine what quality I want and how much I'm willing to spend and go hunting. It's so time consuming.

[@nancys.5968]

I wondered why there are suddenly so many designer outlet stores - Coach, Kate Spade, etc. They used to be pretty rare and did sell overstocks and out of season merchandise. Nothing wrong if someone can't afford retail but I think it cheapens the brand overall.

[@shecandoit4801]

I honestly do not care. I shop both outlets and retail stores. I do not just buy to buy. I always make sure to pay attention to quality over cost. Therefore, to me it is not that serious. I do not feel ripped off.

[@HarlieHarlot]

I think this is all petty. Some people can't afford full price. These designers create outlets so people with a budget can still enjoy wearing their label. I knew from the beginning I'm not going to get the same quality but like the guy said it's still great quality. In my opinion. This video didn't change my perceptions. As for the winners dissatisfied customer...I think she took it too far. Did it ever occur to her that it was human error. Look at the examples they pulled and researched. They weren't off.

[@bnaicole32]

I agree wholeheartedly....thank you @HarlieHarlot

[@tacobella6474]

Exactly! And, technically, the stuff in the outlet stores are still genuine since they are made by the same exact company that manufactures the retail products. It's so ridiculous to be this picky. I think it's just a lot of butt hurt people who bought full retail price items because they didn't think to shop at the outlet first. I have both retail Coach and outlet Coach. I barely notice a difference. In fact, my outlet purse has outlasted my retail purse (both purchased in the same year. One was given to me as a birthday gift and I purchased the other for myself around Christmas).

[@xxkarlosxxxxxx7233]

And I say to u... most shoppers dont know about outlet vs retail and quality... they believe it's the same product but they honestly think they are saving big bucks and shady outlets wouldn't tell them the truth ofcoarse... why? Because they don't wanna loose customers and some work on commission... who doesnt want bonus money for selling more stuff monthly

[@slavmetal]

No, the designers lie to the customer to take their money. I have always known it wasn't the same quality, but not everyone does. They aren't doing this so people on a budget can enjoy their products, they're taking advantage of people and ripping them off.

[@maibuimaibui]

Bellamv _ Were you with them when they purchased the bag? How can you be so sure that it didn’t come from Outlet also?

[@hamsternest9718]

The question here is, "Do brands really matter?"

[@savantianprince]

To me, brands don't matter.

[@MsJeanneMarie]

Or at least that should be the question! That would have been a more helpful segment! She could show us where to find quality off brand clothing.

[@uc136]

😂😂😂😂

[@ladydeanna3775]

Nope

[@shola7987]

nope

[@mariavc7421]

Come on people.. Do you really expect to get "good deals" on major fashion brands? I mean, it's so in your face.. If you understand how the industry thinks, you can't be fooled.

[@fry5544]

Everything lasted longer from my parents’ era, clothes, shoes, watches, washing machines, marriages.

[@tatriceshipp9139]

They are brand named though smh

[@Likethenlove]

Outlets is for the customer that doesn't have the same budget as one that would shop retail all the time. Outlet products doesn't necessarily mean that the product is of bad quality. It's true The quality isn't the same but as a business stand point why would you sell a purse of the same fine leather at an outlet price??? Outlets protect the identity of a brand. If companies kept shipping "old" "clearance" retail products to outlets then customers will eventually catch on, never buy from retail and just wait for it to be shipped to the outlets. As the owner of a business wouldnt you want to cater to more customers???? More customer means different lifestyles. Different lifestyles means different finanacial datura'

[@ellaquirimit7501]

P Hughes

[@iramjam]

Actually with winners I bought a MK bag for $150 and it was compared at $240, I went online to check and it was selling for $240. I do believe they can mess up sometimes since they have like a billion products to tag… But overall I think it’s upto a person to do their own research. You CAN get good deals at winners, just gotta fish 😅

[@siddaye]

@iramjam but are winners an outlet store?

[@ReassuringSmile]

So you're paying $169 for cotton? when the raw material + labor costs around $7-10 USD to produce?

[@mattsmith3949]

7-10$ per 100lbs you mean

[@Reesicup]

the BIGGEST difference between outlet and retail is Guess. Guess outlet is so cheap looking and feeling compared to Guess retail. It didn't take me more than 30 seconds inside the guess outlet to know it was a super cheap version of what I expected!

[@crunch9876]

Yea but in my Opinion guess is also cheap at retail but fed cheaper at outlets.

[@casaraku1]

Guess what....

[@perfectlyyoubeauty]

Absolutely!

[@Pepperthecory]

Guess quality is crap anyways

[@fifinanti80]

This is why I shop clearance at the department stores. I get the same product at 70+% off. I worked in retail a few years back clothes have a 6-8 weeks shelf life. I go & pre-shop then go back 6 weeks later to buy that item. I've purchased $100 value clothes at $10-20 or less, 6 weeks later.

[@dnlcast2]

My rent is so high...i can't afford anything name brand. I have to stick to Wal-Mart's $8 collar shirts and $12 generic blue jeans 👍....which is fine with me!

[@melimel9265]

dnt sleep on Walmart fashion, especially for women clothing. I hav gotten so many complements n when asked where I got it from they always were shocked when I say WALMART lol

[@geronimoromero8911]

They have 3 dollar shirts at them arab stores

[@JustMe-gs9xi]

yes,,, understand, but women are women,, i always had mediocre cars, but liked to have pretty clothes.

[@anolani]

Walmart has awesome clothes and the prices are good

[@lastofusclips5291]

thrift stores have name brand clothes at like 20% the price. you just have to wash them good when you bring them home

[@chanelsimone6072]

Do ppl not understand the word “outlet”. It’s cheaper, do they really think brands will give them the same quality for less.......

[@cynthia_ess]

you're still paying a lot of money in the first place at the outlets

[@mrs.b.s.7212]

yeah! my thought exactly, Cynthia Essiambre.

[@jelicianorwood24]

I know right

[@katienorris1979]

Jesus Christ, that lady with a vendetta against Winners needs to calm down.

[@maggiebassendale102]

Exactly 😂 it shocks me that she's so appalled, does that really surprise anyone?

[@MSCMidlife]

@@maggiebassendale102 she's also wrong, winners verified the compare at prices for 20 out of the 21 items that CBC found. They sent it all in a letter to CBC well before this aired. Funny how they never mentioned that in the show.

[@deryagungor1217]

@@MSCMidlife how do you know ?

[@MSCMidlife]

@@deryagungor1217 CBC literally posted the letter right on their website.

[@karlachavez7228]

I'm a fashion student n this is a class that is mandatory to take about retail ethics. It is not ethical for a company to make a customer think they r getting a deal when they really aren't. Outlet stores r successful bc they mislead the customers if they were honest people would realize they r over paying n their business would not be as successful

[@xPorsum]

Karla Chavez but those outlet stores are owned by the same company as the retail.. lol

[@julijakeit]

@@xPorsum which makes it even worse as people will lose trust in these companies in general. the designers are making their own knock-offs. the today's 'outlet' stores should be renamed after what they really are - *_mass production_* stores.

[@jooztbakker9494]

it's a big big faux

[@tacobella6474]

@@julijakeit they're technically not "knock-offs" though ? They are manufactured by the same company, made in the same factories with the same set of instructions, just slightly lower quality. Anyone who has ever owned a, for example, outlet Coach and retail Coach purse can tell you that there isn't much difference at all in the quality. In their case, it's still real leather and made the same way as retail purses. A "knock-off" has to come from outside the company, not inside its own factories.

[@KB0713]

Surprise. Most people in the world are not ethical...shocker. Any adult should realize that companies are in business to make money. Period. I can't believe this woman is so aggravated that she was mislead. Maybe she is aggravated because she is nice and honest and hates to see anyone be dishonest for more profit, or maybe she is just an entitled upper middle class American. Whichever it is, she should grow up. It's her responsibility to educate herself on what she considers to be a worthwhile purchase for her, and what she is willing to spend for it. Buying something because someone says it's a good price, rather than because you truly need it or want it, intentionally shopped for it, and would be willing to pay more for it is why our landfills and homes are now overflowing with stuff.

[@faithcastillo9597]

Better buys are found at thrift stores, consignment shops and Goodwill stores. Recent scores include a pullover shirt from Chicos, a vintage leather Fossel handbag, a new Sak crochet handbag ( tags still attached), and a Claudio Firenza Italian leather handbag. Total cost:$29. Everything is in great shape and very clean. Three skirts, 1 cotton twill and 2 linen, $6. Just so you know, I buy only natural fabrics and I prefer classic designs so lean toward Ralph Lauren, Liz Claibourn, New Directions, Ruby Road and other a few other similar makers. It takes a bit more work but it's totally worth it.

[@Danisimonecouture]

I was actually a designer for outlet clothing for a few well known brands when I worked in the industry. The main difference is outlet stuff is licensed out so we don’t use the exact same factories as the regular retail. So there will be slight differences in details such as the Coach handbag at the outlet version being lesser leather. It’s still a good deal.

[@Danisimonecouture]

Basically it’s private labeling their own brand.

[@Danisimonecouture]

Actually I have a lot more thoughts about this. I feel a blog post coming lol 😂

[@GEES44DC]

Anyone who has fashion sense knows that outlets sell B grade merchandise.

[@TheGoose31]

cbc didnt show us the retail to outlet price difference so how can we decide which is bang for your buck? they keep using that term and coming to the conclusion for us

[@bombervity3458]

TheGoose31 Yeah, like a Coach bag can be $4,000. If I buy a $200 bag, it had better not be the same quality.

[@julijakeit]

when you buy armani outlet item you expect armani quality, right? no, it turns out they're lying to us! Not necessarily armani brand but those 'outlet' stores that specifically create crap with big brand logo to fool the unsuspected customer. I have been to real outlet sales at a normal retail store, they just sold out no longer existing designers items or their older pieces but it was quality production for much lower price. This is what outlet really is - letting the unsold items out and not what it is today at the outlet cities/malls/villages - mass-production of crap to fool people.

[@xHarlequin]

I've gotten the best deals at Winners. Just because one woman bought something that wasn't a discount, doesn't mean all their stuff is like that. Recently I got a sweater for $35, I looked it up online and it was still on the designer's website for $400.

[@carolr7823]

It could have been a 2nd quality though.

[@taram4414]

Can we please mention how (non-outlet) retail stores have the SAME practices? I have worked in many retail locations. Almost all items are already on sale in our system when they are loaded off the truck from the new shipment. They are placed directly on the floor with a sale sign and were NEVER the "full price" advertised on the tag.

[@noirking6138]

YES! And some places even mark them back up to regular price from the clearance sections. I've seen it working in retail before. People have no idea.

[@maibuimaibui]

The sale price is the real price

[@matthewharris-levesque5809]

I once worked at the PRODUCTION HOUSE that produced and shipped products to THE HUDSON BAY COMPANY distributors. We not only put the price tags on the product, but also put sale tags on the product. BEFORE it even came into the BAY's possession. And this practice is/was not unique to us, or them.

[@everynewdayisablessing8509]

Thanks for confirming what I suspected all along.

[@sarahshah8924]

I don’t mind buying from the outlets, the quality isn’t bad, everything deteriorates, I will enjoy what I have while it lasts.

[@sparx180]

Sarah Shah I have nice clothes but after 3 years they go to a charity that ships them to the needy say the Middle East and Africa. My mom always told me never give away anything that you can use yourself. Meaning just bcs that person is poor do not give them raggedy clothing and I do.

[@Drekulviin]

what about jewelry stores ? boosting the "regular" price to 100% and adding a rebate of 80%. still people think they have a deal. when you ask someone how much he paid for something, most will say; i saved 75$ on it, even before telling you the price.

[@StorytimeWithGladys]

I used to work for People's Jewellers / Zales. This is 100% true. I even had our regional manager tell me to straight up lie to the customers about the quality of the jewellery. I left not long after that, I felt dirty working there.

[@openmindead1610]

all this stuff costs a couple cents to make in china, so no matter the sale its still completely overpriced. You can fill your whole store with 50+ dollar items for just 300 bucks - 1000.

[@Pernection]

Or buy from liquidators. New jeans for 3 bucks per pallet

[@medodrama9487]

Exactly! Poor third world countries make them for pennies and they sell them for so high? Like for what? What have you done ? Even these top designers use words like *inspired from this small village in India* yeah cuz you can't say f**king stole it

[@insertgoodname4809]

Winners makes you think you are getting a deal. That's why people "shop" there. I can guarantee you there is a 100% mark-up on everything.

[@destineeallen88]

openmindead1 need to go shopping in China

[@karenmikkelsen-smith4857]

Please buy American made products.

[@AshHeaven]

This was very informative. I am planning to study fashion design, so this is great. My family has never really gone to any lengths of buying designer brands at all, so I had no idea of what differences retail and outlet products might have between them or even that they were two separate things. I do not personally think that it is a rip-off exactly. It is more a case of “you get what you pay for.” The higher quality line would cost more to produce and would therefore cost more for consumers. You get lower, more affordable prices for the outlet ones because the materials and sometimes labor are sourced less expensively. If you still want to have the luxury of “designer” name brand things, but can only afford outlet-quality, I think it is perfectly fine to have the option to get slightly less quality items at lesser prices as long as the difference is not too steep.

[@demonkitti27]

This was enlightening. Glad CBC Marketplace is willing to do this kind of investigative work for those of us who can't.

[@Monakita]

This is a joke. Just buy a sale at a retail store. I bought a pair of Levi's for $12 at the Levi's retail store in downtown at the mall. I paid more at the outlet. Lol! Joke!!!

[@artreyes3215]

Roxanne Juarez n

[@artreyes3215]

Don K

[@MsDNka]

Rest in peace Kate Spade 2018

[@barbarahenn-pander5872]

This episode highlighted the superficial values rife in the fashion industry. Most people go for new, disposable fashion. The designer focused on details, craftsmanship and longevity. If you get clear on your values, you can act accordingly. Why do people always want something for nothing?

[@happymunchkin2812]

I figured it out all by myself long time ago and never really like shopping at outlets. It nothing wrong shopping at outlets if you have a good deal, but if not why drive all the way to outlets while you can shop at regular mall and wait when they have promotions.

[@slgleaton375]

Actually I've bought items at TJ Maxx and the compare at pricing was much LOWER than what the items actually retailed for elsewhere.

[@samisingh3085]

I just saw the 3 diamonds on my banana republic sweater. I still love it 🥰.

[@phenomenalgirl]

Anything you take care of will probably last longer. I have stuff from target and old navy that looks fantastic and I've owned it for a long time.

[@monicamason3414]

I have great quality clothes cheap from China from their version of Amazon. Most things bought in North America is made elsewhere anyways. I feel better getting from the source and being petite with small feet, I have a better chance of finding my size. I just check feedback and how much shipping is. Often shipping is free or close to it. Wearing pants (with front pockets-hard to find here) and a sweater right now with excellent stitching and comfort level. I get lots of complements on the jewelry, shoes and dresses I get. Sometimes the retailer I buy from throws in a gift like a bracelet, hair tie, fancy shoe laces, gift tags or extra matching buttons (like I used to find with shirts bought here). Very few duds.

[@denisenembhard9402]

I have occasionally scored great deals at an outlet store, but they are few and far between. Very few. I notice that the Banana Republic store was called a Factory Store, not a factory outlet. Sneaky!

[@chukie30]

Denise Nembhard Yes, all businesses in an outlet mall are not what the typical consumer would consider outlet store prices. You have to be a savvy shopper to realize when your getting a good deal at the outlets

[@cartrice2010]

I’m still gonna shop at the Outlets. 🤷‍♀️

[@tiajoseph7309]

Same here. I don't care about the compare at prices at all. All I care about is the outlet price. As long as it's nice and within my budget, I'm buying it. Quality doesn't really matter that much to me.

[@JoyofRVing]

I actually prefer Pepsi I haven’t had any problems with quality from outlet bought purses. The zippers are fine, the leather is strong. I live 10 minutes from an outlet and I love it. Always have good sales for the locals at the end of the month, when they haven’t reached their sales quota 😜. Way cheaper than holiday sales.

[@snowpuffxx]

I'd much rather have a YKK zip than a store-branded zip lol

[@crystalheart9]

I figured this out some time ago when I was seeing an inflated price ($50.)on a simple top that had $20. marked under it as the for sale price. I thought there is no way this top is worth $50.! I knew these stores were falsely over pricing their products so they can say they were marked down. I wondered how they were getting away with this as I think it is unfair advertising and a rip off. I noticed this first at Kohl's and then at other stores as time went on. I'm glad this is getting exposed so people won't be so trusting.

[@oliviaseed1199]

crystalheart9 Same as Aldo

[@annmariebusu9924]

crystalheart9 I like to lift up the tag to check the original price at winners for clearance items 😬

[@taraokimaw4670]

Same.

[@yulin114]

That is why I always have a price in mind that I will buy with this range and don’t look at the 50% off sign.

[@maibuimaibui]

crystalheart9 Too bad it happens all the time!

[@SuperOz152]

Everyone involved with this show is a freaking genius. This show is so beneficial for Canadian. So much relevant information and education. Keep up the great work guys

[@staytrue6232]

I disagree when it comes to Winners. I've been shopping at Winners for many years and being a cost conscious person with manufacturing background, I use the comparative price as a reference. It is a retail price and not a discounted price. I have an idea how much the product is worth based on quality. Ideally I purchase the product when first arrived brand new with all tags and I try on and check for defects. If it meets my requirement and the price is right, I'll buy the product. I find Winners has fair pricing, Return policy and great customer service. I've found many favorites from Winners and will continue to shop there.💗

[@NefariousBun]

I worked for coach factory and Columbia outlet store both for over a year. The compare price is a lie. Colombia outlet is currently in a lawsuit. The coach factory bags are cheap and they still charge you 150 or higher. Best to just go to designers normal stores. Yes these companies create their own knockoffs.

[@julijakeit]

Michael Kors is another scammer. Not buying their products, ever, retail or otherwise.

[@ak-tn1ed]

@@julijakeit why? I just bought an MK bag for my mom and now im worried

[@julijakeit]

@@ak-tn1ed at the MK outlet store i specifically asked for robust material around the handles, explaining my past experience with sealing of the handles pealing all the time and they reassured me their seal will hold which was a lie, it pealed very quickly. But my biggest disappointment was that the bag got some rain drops and the seams and material near the seams got swollen (!) so much it was visible from afar. My bag cost around 250 EUR, I learned my lesson. I only hope your experience with the bag will be better and your mom will enjoy it. I would recommend next time looking for less hyped out brands that still care about their products' quality.

[@ana_yay]

As a frequent outlet-goer I have to say that there are items specifically made for the outlets HOWEVER you also see a good bit of overstock from many big brands. The overstock usually has less variation (like only one item in one size) and sells for a much larger price then other items in the same category (for example, bags which are made for the outlet are usually around $20-50 and overstock is usually closer to $100 or more depending on the brand). So you can still score a phenomenal deal if you visit the outlet frequently and meticulously search for a specific brand to pop up.

[@jessjess1673]

lol I'm laughing how mad and hurt she was on the compared price. First world problem 😹

[@chukie30]

Jess Jess I agree...I'm looking at is it worth the price I'm actually paying not the compared price...smh

[@Crispr00]

Jess Jess ok...

[@brookita05]

Jess Jess So betrayed! Lol 😝

[@ashleylesiak4114]

I used to work at Winners and that lady definitely is the type we would often get. Angry, entitled, cry-baby, middle-class, white women. They are the worst. They think everything is personal attack.

[@vato2352]

Jess Jess my heart ❤️ goes out to her 😂

[@Ms.MD7]

I worked retail and this has been a known secret to us lol ppl always gets excited at outlets because they think they're saving when they're actually getting a lower quality solely created for outlets but note not all stores do this. Some other's inventory are from the retail store that didn't sell well from the previous season. From my experience, it's usually the super high-end stores like D&G and certain mall brands like Guess by Marciano actually had products from retail stores.

[@vS-gk2wg]

The Guess outlet is COMPLETELY different than the real store.

[@natestec7847]

That is true. The outlet is so messy and it's not that cheap. Also your basically getting a Forever 21 item with a brand on it. But I really like the G by guess.

[@SLone3251]

Oh FOR SURE. You can feel and see how much sheerer the fabric is, not to mention the tackier logos and designs. A shame because I used to love the main Guess brand but even those items have dropped in quality (mainly design).

[@SLone3251]

@@natestec7847 I loved G By Guess too but it seems Guess recently closed the brand's site and have shifted all G By Guess stuff to Guess Factory now (at least in the USA). Makes me think the brand is gonna fold.

[@natestec7847]

@@SLone3251 oh the store in the mall I go to is still there?

[@SLone3251]

@@natestec7847 The physical G By Guess stores are still around, although many underperforming ones were closed 2015/2016-ish. I actually emailed Guess and they said the brand isn't folding but gave no explanation as to why GBG merged with Guess Factory. Seems like it cheapens the brand a lot since Guess Factory isn't know to have quality designs or build. The selection for men is also incredibly small now, at least online.

[@Maria89_]

When my outlet Michael kors bag lasted longer than my new Michael kors bag from the mall. Shop smart

[@hayesvalley753]

Let me tell you this! As a Banana Republic/Gap Buyer and Merchandiser all the leftovers from the retails stores are usually pass on the Outlets store! Usually the old season that was not sold at the Retails usually transferred to the outlets. These are called over produced stuff, meaning we have met our sale expectations for the particular products for the season and it’s time to cut the prices and transfer to the outlets store.

[@Eve_Y]

The lady who is so salty with 'winners' 😂😂 You wanted to be cheap and then get mad smh

[@yingyingwx]

Eve Yitagesu Karen

[@sanjarsocool]

Ivy right it’s $30 that’s an amazing price plus who even uses a compare at price

[@tammyalspaugh8662]

She is wearing a shirt that is sold at Winners. Its a CK shirt. I guarantee you she bought it there. She just wanted her moment.

[@crystalbrown3728]

Exactly she did not lose either way. She payed the same amount.

[@yessenia7643]

People take materialistic items way too serious, this is ridiculous

[@Crispr00]

Yessenia no...it’s not ridiculous

[@tybooskie]

I don't buy clothes and accessories often and that's because I like to buy high quality items as I do with anything else I purchase. I don't want to be duped by a brand I trust.

[@corsicanlulu]

ur so right yessenia. as long as u look good who cares really

[@theclatesiq]

I agree with you, it's ridiculous

[@gabbieannie8025]

i disturbingly liked this .. how am i so lIkE tHIS mehh!

[@NgocVKHennessy]

in actuality, it depends on the sale & the item(s) . I am an outlet lover BUT I always do my research before purchasing. For Coach outlets, I only get items that are outlet exclusive, items that I cannot find at a local Coach retail store. Quality wise varies from item to item. Outlets aren't all that negative BUT when they claim to have a sale, do the math & be sure to do your research. Sometimes I prefer paying full price for items based on quality, but most of the time the items at outlets are way better quality than the local retail store. That's just my input . Outlets back then were a place where they can send their off seasonal or out of season items to be sold at a lower price . Big bargains or not it depends on the brand and each person's reference .

[@matemahe]

Ngoc VK Hennessy I think you missed the point outlets give you the name similar styles n color but lower quality materials

[@NgocVKHennessy]

no i understand . i used to work in retail before i switched over to pharmacy . I get what they're saying - my mom is a seamstress so i know quality . i'm just stating the fact that NOT ALL the items are low quality at the outlet , there are just A FEW of them are actually high quality . I am well aware of what the video is trying to say . I'm just stating a fact that not ALL outlet qualities are as bad as they say. I have items that are a hit or miss compared to the retail stores .

[@anon4449]

Where do you recommend?

[@stanbalo]

Actually outlet items cannot be that bad bec it will eventually haunt the brand in the long run. They will use less expensive less Lux materials to cut cost but Somehow The Durability Is Still There.

[@numerical616]

I thought everyone already know that the quality from the actual stores and outlets are different.

[@normande1176]

there's good dupe, but it's true the quality is not the same

[@clanceymoreino7023]

Honestly speaking I would still buy from the outlet!!

[@chaycesmom1212]

Me too!

[@joysmart]

Lol me too

[@julieerin115]

Why spend money on poor quality? Just shop at the clearance racks in regular stores.

[@julijakeit]

@@julieerin115 it;s all that bling bling tag name, the bigger the better, to show off for their friends. I see it a lot because I live in a city with an outlet mall - teens hugging their outlet bags that look like any H&M bag with some designer name but overall their appearance is unsophisticated, to put it in the mildest.

[@amykamrowski7862]

Clancey Moreino me too!!!!

[@SarahVZig]

I work at an outlet store & the outlet product quality is deff. different than the actual brand, thats because the brands make products for the outlet. Yet the prices are still pretty expensive. I often get customers ask me if out items are real brand or knock offs because they can tell the quality is crap.

[@sandrabrown929]

An honest Eddie Bauer employee told me the key is to ask at the retail store if they accept outlet returns. Eddie Bauer does, which confirms their quality is the same.

[@misslene]

i work retail and we send stuff to outets all the time but outlets so have their own merchandise as well. so the banana associate was telling the truth

[@omomo202]

People are so gullible. If you see an item you like and the price is reasonable, you buy it. I never look at the “compare at” price because it means nothing. Also, factory outlet stores have never sold any original items! I could have told you that when I was 12. Outlet stores are boring and uninspiring and lack the style found in the original. If you want polos, plain t shirts, chinos, etc, then go to the outlet by all means.

[@user-uh2dn9ks3k]

TJ Maxx, Marshall's, Beall's outlet, Nordstrom rack, Skechers outlets, and many other outlets stores all sell defective clothes, handbags, shoes, when I have gone to those stores every single piece of clothing I have looked at or tried on have very noticeable defects. So there is no bargain when it's just plain junk. There have been times I have also noticed defects on clothes from even big department stores and expensive boutiques 😕

[@heidiu2scrap]

I have shopped at Winners for over 20 years and have only occassionally had problems with the quality of items I have bought. I have also bought high end products that have fallen apart from retail stores quite quickly. Retail doesn't necessarily mean high quality. I always google retail prices in Winners and their compare prices are almost always much lower than the retail price. And when they had the people compare prices on the computer with the compare prices, most were accurate and a lot they couldn't find the item to compare the price. The whole thing about Winners was ridiculous and not well done. And that woman practically crying over $30 pants. Get over it! I bought a $25 pair of jeans from Winners 10 years ago that still look great because I take care of my clothes. Someone needs a life! I will continue to shop at Winners (and no, I do not work for Winners).

[@MrGoodsalesman]

The thing about price is subjective. Value is what you are willing to pay. If you think something is worth it, just by looking at it and seeing the workmanship then you have to make a decision. Who is this program made for anyways? People that get upset if they think they paid too much? Sound like they have too much time on their hands. You can save money shopping around for sure, but it does cost you time and if it take you 3 hour of your life to save an extra 20.00 buddy u have issues.

[@sugarkats21]

Tam Le my thoughts exactly!

[@jemcanalesable]

House of Banelord. To me it seems they’re trying to do a marketing gimmick to get people to go to the high-end store and spend more money for designers the media does that all the time

[@PT111111]

8:15 YKK zipper is high quality zipper though.

[@EveryBunny]

It is, BUT more "ritzy" companies will pay them to print their brand name on the YKK zipper. With the lesser pant, they didn't bother.🤷🏼‍♀️

[@KatieGrady1997]

I’ve honestly never come across anything from an outlet store that has anything wrong with it. Certainly nothing to complain about. I don’t care where you go, you’re always going to be paying much, much more than the company paid to produce the item. I always go for what I think is worth the money it’s being sold for. Forget the “brand” or the “compare at” prices.

[@SmileSuper13]

Leftovers do go to the outlet! I work at Kate Spade and we get things from retail sent to the outlet all the time if it doesn't sell at retail.

[@liallama5562]

Some things do like I've bought a nice pair of boots and then saw the pair a year or so later at an outlet but the need more than just the left overs to fill the store unfortunately

[@julijakeit]

now that's the fair outlet of the brand and this is what should be done by other brands. sadly, most of the brands just create their own knock-offs from much cheaper material, splash on their logo and reap a good marginal profit from the unaware.

[@clorox1676]

I doubt you can stock an outlet store with just leftovers. It's very likely you'll find some leftovers mixed with mostly low cost products.

[@abigaelrarts2257]

Here's the thing. You just have to look at the product in front of you in the outlet, inspect the quality, and ask yourself, "Am I willing to pay $___ for this product today?" The price it was originally available for somewhere else, or the "compare at" pricing is irrelevant to deciding if you've gotten a good deal. Trust yourself to know how much something should cost based on the materials used, quality, craftsmanship, labour etc, and decide whether it is a good deal on those characteristics. Don't listen to what a company initially appraised their own product at because they are inherently biased.

[@cindy846]

Well said

[@yufeisun8646]

If I do this, I don't wanna buy anything from the retail shops or outlet. In China you can buy the same quality Louis Vuitton bags with only 3-5% price. 😂😂😂

[@JohnSm926]

A good shopper is getting the same look for less. Besides, it all depends on your personal budget. I know people who can carry themselves so well they can wear a sack and still look better than people who are brand conscious. Is the brand a guarantee you ll look better? It s how you wear it!

[@julijakeit]

great comment and indeed the smart shopper will get the same for less. the problem here is that you don't get the same for less. you get less. much less for what's suppose to be the same as a retail quality. even looks differ, as seen later on in the video. if you only care for the brand logo and can afford to waste money for worse quality and buy new items more often, that's great and go for it. for some, 200$ bag suppose to last for years and not get damaged within a season!

[@xvi3txl0v1ngx]

There's stores that do disclose this. Whenever Kate spade has their "surprise sale" online, most of the items say " made for outlet" right in the description. I've bought a wallet retail from Kate spade and another during their surprise sale, same design but you can tell just by looking at them that it's different quality. You just have to be patience and find the items that are on sale that's not "made for outlets".

[@ammyliuu]

Whenever I'm at Winners, I always look at prices on my phone and actually compare them.. and I usually never buy clothes

[@lexalily8673]

I do the same thing.. great deals on handbags & high end makeup if you are patient enough to look & Google.

[@TNexpert]

I Google the cosmetics to see shades

[@DragunovSniperElite]

I dont feel that it is a rip off. Only delusional and entitled people think they should be paying less for the same quality because they are some how special. Its only fair that products that cost less cut corners to save costs. I dont mind paying less for a generic zipper instead of a name brand zipper. Nobody is going to check the brand on your zipper. Most people who aren't in the fashion industry wont be able to tell the difference. Maybe the outlet pants dont last as long, but honestly most people dont wear the same pair of pants for 10 years, so the better quality is wasted.

[@Acidfunkish]

Most people seem to think that outlets sell last season's or leftover goods that haven't sold. It's possible that it was that way in the past, but then companies realised they could make cheaply made goods and make a higher profit. :/ *Sometimes*, it is worthwhile to buy expensive brand name goods, but definitely not always.

[@KarinWilcox]

you dont know anything about quality if you think it doesnt matter. The quality of zipper does matter. And if your shopping at a store selling you JCrew khakis at a discount stating they are $125 retail but on sale for $60 you expect them to be same as the retail they are comparing them to. The zippers for example while you may not understand the difference I do. YKK are very common very cheap zippers used in many many bargain clothing items. Nothing wrong with that. But when your paying a premium for a premium product I want a better zipper. The YKK zippers give out much quicker, they wear down faster, they get bent tines which keeps them from zipping I could go on and on and that $60 pair of khakis turns into $120+ pair when you have to repurchase them every 3-6 montts. When the retail pair of better quality will lat you until the material starts to give way. The outlet pants are made of a much lower quaility fabric weave is looser the mix used in the weave is not as sturdy. You really need to understand what your talking about before you can really say oh its the basically the same. Your cheating yourself by shopping there.

[@dareliciouz]

spot on !!! u got it right! i totally agree with u

[@sugarkats21]

Arsène Lupin exactly i agree

[@peppapig-mf4cs]

Arsène Lupin Yes you are correct, as women I get sick of my clothes real quick and it before year. I am not going to wear a top for 10/15 years and look like I am stuck in 2000 LMAO

[@judyvalencia3257]

I am so thankful that you put out this information. I have learned so much, not only on this subject but others that you have posted. I am not Canadian, but even us Texans are willing and able to learn.

[@violetapelzman4316]

I went to a Coach outlet and the clerk did tell me that most of the items were made for the outlet and only a few items were made for "retail". They are pretty honest.

[@michaellee888]

Maybe once upon a time the surplus or leftovers get sent to outlets; however, retailers were suffering because of that which lead to outlet stores being reinvented. Knock offs were also a factor. Now definitively outlet stores only sell outlet merchandise. Oh well.