Think out of the box this festive season

Believe it or not the festive season is here and with it comes a sense of excitement but also concern over financial obligations.

Richard Mukheibir, CEO of Cash Converters, says the economic downturn is putting pressure on consumers’ budgets and people are looking for ways to make their money stretch.

The weak Rand, increased school and university fee hikes for the coming year, and general living cost increases are all contributing factors to increased pressure on our wallets.

“With this in mind perhaps this is the time to start thinking out of the box in terms of the festive season and spending,” he says.

Mukheibir says one of the best ways to spend within your budget is to look at buying previously owned goods, especially when it comes to electronics.

“In September and October we see an increase in people looking to sell their electronic goods, particularly items like tablets, laptops, cellphones, gaming consoles and games and TV’s, Dvd players and sound systems.

“They’re usually looking to fund the purchase of new gadgets and holiday gifts. January is also a month where you’ll find excellent second hand electronics as people trade in older models to make use of the newer gifts they received.

“If you are looking to spoil a loved one with gadgetry, it’s a good idea to take a look at what’s on offer at previously-owned stores. You can buy something that’s as good as new, for two thirds or half of the price.”

Besides gadgets, you will also find a host of functional and practical items like furniture, DIY tools, kitchen utensils and appliances and sports equipment, etc.

Musical instruments are also a big selling item, particularly for children starting to play an instrument. Mukheibir cautions that when you purchase previously owned goods, make sure you’re getting a good quality item that is in working order.

“It’s also worth possibly spreading your present buying over the next few months so firstly you can take advantage of good prices, and secondly you can spread the spend over a few pay cheques.

“You also avoid the festive season last minute rush. Especially in previously-owned goods stores, there are new products coming in and going out all the time so it’s probably a good idea to check out the stock a few times instead of leaving it all to one shopping spree,” he adds.

Upcycling or repurposing goods is another fun way to think out of the box for gifts this year.

“We do find customers who get creative with the goods they purchase from our stores. Using items like CDs, cutlery, crockery, furniture and even electronic goods, people create beautiful, redesigned crafts. It’s a fun and unique way to make an inexpensive gift for a loves one.”

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