What Are Outlet Stores?

Outlet stores are stores that carry the same or similar items to a mainstream store only at a discounted price. Oftentimes, stores overestimate the amount of items they think will sell, and need a place to sell--and in the meantime, store--the surplus. Outlet stores offer great deals on merchandise, and can save you quite a bit of money if you shop there.

Many mainstream national stores have outlet stores scattered around the country. Stores like Gap, Banana Republic, Crate and Barrel, Eddie Bauer, and hundreds more all have outlet stores at which to sell their end-of-line, marked down merchandise. Outlet stores tend to be in slightly out of the way areas, and often are grouped together into an outlet mall of sorts, with tons of stores and ample shopping opportunities.

Is the merchandise of poor quality?

Some people think that because the prices are so good, the merchandise must not be as high quality as you'd receive in a mainstream store. That perception is, for the most part, invalid. Outlet store merchandise is likely to be as high quality as the merchandise you'd find in a non-outlet store of the same company.

If you're concerned about the quality of merchandise, it's a good idea to examine each item carefully before you purchase it for evidence of shoddy worksmanship or early damage, such as loose threads, cracks in the item, etc.

Online Outlet Stores

It is possible to do outlet shopping online as well. Some stores feature their outlets on a separate website, while other may link their outlet deals to their main website. Other stores, however, may have an outlet store, but may not make it available online.