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Strategies to Secure Great Discounts on Items You Love 

  • fotaquest
  • Feb 4
  • 3 min read

Updated: Feb 6

Strategies to Secure Great Discounts on Items You Love 

By Lars Guo 

Published: February 4, 2025


Opening Message

Hi folks! This blog is all about getting great deals. Disclaimer: These strategies won’t always work, and it’s crucial to respect the decisions made by store staff. Many stores are struggling to stay afloat, so don’t be greedy. Be kind because it’s the right thing to do—not just to get a discount. Discounts are a bonus, not the primary goal. I am not responsible for any trouble caused by inappropriate behavior in the name of securing deals. Now, let’s dive in—I hope you enjoy this guide!


I took this photo.
I took this photo.

Step 1: Build a Good Relationship

Developing a positive relationship with the store can go a long way. Connections matter! For example, at one store, whenever I photographed my plushies there, I tagged their Instagram, giving them free publicity in return. Showing genuine support for a business can create goodwill that may lead to discounts or perks. If a store does something nice for you, return the favor.


Step 2: Ask Nicely

It’s simple—ask politely and respect the response. If they say no, drop it and thank them graciously. Persisting too much can come across as harassment, which could lead to being asked to leave the store. Here’s a personal example: I once tried to trade merchandise at a local anime store for a Pokéball I got in Japan. They declined, and I accepted their decision with a polite, “Thank you so much for your time and consideration.”

Respect earns respect. At another anime store, I managed to get two anime plushies for $3.05 under the listed price. When I saw the plushies, I couldn’t resist—but the price was a bit steep. So, I asked if they could do better. To my surprise, they said yes—on one condition: I had to buy two items. It was an easy decision. I took them up on their offer and scored a discount on each plushie. A little negotiation goes a long way!"

, and I left them a glowing Google review as a thank-you. It sounds like you're looking for a negotiation strategy.


Here's how you can phrase it:

"That price seems a bit steep. Is there any flexibility on it?"

If they indicate they can lower the price, you can respond with:

"Great! What’s the best you can do?"

If they offer a new price that works for you, you can say:

"That sounds fair. I’ll take it."

Would you like a more tailored script for a specific situation?


Good Times to Ask for a Deal

  • During Promotions: Sign up for rewards programs to stay updated on deals. To avoid cluttering your personal inbox, use a separate email for promotional offers and a Google Voice number for any required phone contacts.

  • Around Your Birthday: The week leading up to your birthday is an excellent time to ask for deals. For instance, in 2023, I got free popcorn from a movie theater a few days after my birthday and scored discounted Digimon cards earlier that same week. At one store, I got a Pikachu plush for $5 less than the original price.


Key Points to Keep in Mind

  • Small vs. Big Chains: Smaller stores are more likely to offer discounts than larger chains. Bigger stores usually have strict policies, but smaller businesses can be more flexible. Be mindful not to exploit these opportunities—smaller stores often operate on tighter margins.

  • Kindness Matters: Courteous behavior can lead to unexpected perks. At a candle store, a cashier once gave me a birthday candle even though the coupon I needed didn’t come through.

  • Build Relationships: At a local seafood restaurant, I developed friendships that occasionally led to free sodas or desserts.


Closing Message

Do you have the nerve to ask for better deals, or do you think this approach is unethical? Did you find my guide helpful? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Thank you for reading—stay safe, happy, and healthy. Have a great day!





 
 
 

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