Costco shoppers fume they need to ‘stay away’ after spending $500 while only going for two items – Target is as bad
HUNDREDS of shoppers have expressed a gripe with some of their favorite big-box stores: the retailers get them to spend too much money.
In numerous posts on X, TikTok comments, and Instagram chats, shoppers have joked about their inability to resist splurging at Target and Costco.
AlamyCostco members complained after spending over budget at the store[/caption]
GettyTarget shoppers also posted on social media about the same issue[/caption]
Some shoppers reported spending $500 at Costco even though they went to the store for a few items.
“This is why my boyfriend won’t let me go to Costco alone,” one shopper posted on X.
“I spend way too much money on s*** we probably don’t need. BUT LOOK HOW CUTE just doesn’t seem to resonate [after the purchase].”
Dozens of commenters added their reactions to overspending at the retailer on a popular January TikTok about Costco.
“[I] love, love Costco, and I never walk out without [spending] $500 or more,” one shopper said.
Another added that they had also spent more than expected after visiting the retailer when they “just needed butter and toilet paper.”
Target shoppers said they faired no better.
“Unfortunately, I love Target so much. I will always spend too much at Target but I love it,” another shopper wrote on X before calling themselves a “Target girly.”
“It is like a hobby. I love getting a drink and going into Target and browsing.”
Another X-user commented they spent $70 while trying to consume some time in the store.
Scientists believe shopping confusion may be partially to blame for the unintended spending.
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF SHOPPING
Psychologists conducted a study into the designs of stores, hoping to get more clarity on consumer spending habits.
Studies found that people under a consistent level of minimal stress will forget their initial shopping lists and make less rational decisions.
In a 1999 study, researchers Baba Shiv and Alexander Fedorikhin published a comparison of shopper’s behaviors under varying levels of duress.
What is Target Circle 360?
In April, Target launched its first-ever paid membership program, Target Circle 360.
For $99 a year ($49 if you sign up before May 18) members get access to the following perks:
Unlimited, free same-day delivery on orders over $35
An extra 30 days to return your items
Free two-day shipping on 100,000s of items
5% off in-store and online
Automatic deals and exclusive partner perks
The study examined two groups of people – one that memorized a two-digit sequence, and another that memorized a seven-digit sequence.
After the two groups moved a cart between rooms, they were asked if they wanted to snack on a fruit salad, seen as a healthier option, or chocolate cake, seen as a more indulgent choice.
The group that had the smaller number more frequently chose the salad.
The researchers concluded that participants under fewer stimilants of stress tended to make decisions with more cognitive understanding of future implications.
Psychologists said that retailers take advantage of this semi-confused state with something called the Gruen Transfer.
The Gruen Transfer is more effective when multiple stimuli are engaged at once, including bright colors, confusing store layouts, music, and large groups of people.
Shoppers looking for the latest deals at Target can see the store’s new offerings here.
Also, here is how to get a Costco membership at a major discount.
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