
Savings mirage: The comparisons aren’t so true

Ever noticed that ‘compare at’ price on their product’s price tags? Well, they might not be so accurate. TJ Maxx will often inflate this value to make you believe that you are getting more of a ‘steal’ than you actually are. You see, this ‘compare at’ price won’t always represent the real market value, so before you get carried away by the supposed price, make sure you do your research!
Mystery merchandise origins

TJ Maxx’s inventory is a lovely and exciting treasure hunt for us all, however some products will lack traceable origins. A significant portion of the stores items come from unknown suppliers, and this can raise ethical and quality concerns. So, stay vigilant and research into your items before you buy them to ensure you’re getting what you paid for.
The discount dance

The genius selling point for TJ Maxx is that their inventory is ever-changing and will then entice you to make an impulse purchase. But beware, because those mark downs aren’t always as extreme as they might seem. Some products will only be discounted by a few bucks, making the allure of saving less appealing. So, before making that impulse purchase, ask yourself if the price is genuinely irresistible, or if you’ve been caught up in the shopping excitement.
Last season’s rejects

Of course, TJ Maxx is a treasure trove for great delas, but a lot of the time the items you see on their shelves are items that other stores have left behind. Those pieces you see might have been hot and fashionable a few months ago, but the fashion world moves quickly. So, if you’re looking for the latest runway styles, then you might want to look somewhere else.
Deceptive tag mischief

TJ Maxx’s yellow price tags can be enticing, but you need to be sure that you are reading the fine print before committing. For example, ‘Final Sale’ may sound like a firm decision, but there could actually be some wiggle room. In some cases, you might still be able to return or exchange your item if it doesn’t manage to meet your expectations. So, if you find yourself hesitant at checkout, take a moment to read its fine print.
Shrinking package sizes

It’s not just your imagination; product sizes may be shrinking at TJ Maxx, and while the price tag might seem tempting, you’ve got to take a look at the actual quantity you’re getting. Some suppliers will look into secretly downsizing, and hoping you won’t notice the change. So, make sure you are getting a good deal by comparing the price per unit with what you’d pay for the regular-sized product.
Expired beauty products

Everyone loves the beauty section at TJ Maxx, it’s filled with discounted skincare and makeup products – what’s not to love?! However, you must exercise caution before you add them to your cart. Some items may be nearing, or already passed, their expiration dates which could lead to skin irritation or ineffective results. Always inspect the products packaging and find its batch code and expiry date.
Designer dupes dilemma

Dreaming of owning a designer piece at a fraction of the cost? TJ Maxx may have what you are looking for, but beware of the knockoffs within the reals. Some designer-inspired can be fabulous finds, however others may fall short in terms of quality and durability. So, before spending your money, make sure to scrutinize the craftsmanship and materials to determine whether its a good deal or not.
Made-for-outlet items

Everyone has been tempted to believe that a fabulous designer piece you’ve scored at TJ Maxx is a hidden gem from a past season. However, you shouldn’t be surprised if it’s a made-for-outlet item. These pieces are often manufactured with lower-quality materials, specifically for outlet stores. While they may look stylish, remember that they may not match the quality of regular retail items.
No price matching policy

As much as we love a good bargain showdown, TJ Maxx isn’t a flea market and sure don’t play the price-matching game, despite their ‘compare to’ price tags. Their prices are set and won’t budge, even if you show them proof of a cheaper deal elsewhere. And while this might be frustrating for savvy shoppers looking to score the lowest price, it’s also a testament to the store’s confidence in their discounted offerings.