GO GREEN: Big Box Retailers
If you are interested in steering your dollars away from irresponsible companies ...
1. Shop Locally! The local grocery store/hardware store/housewares store may offer similar or even lower prices than those found at giants like Wal-Mart and Target.
2. Shop Green! No matter what you might need, Co-op America's National Green Pages™ lists a company that can has what you're looking for. Plus, you can feel good about shopping with businesses that have been rigorously screened by Co-op America for their social and environmental business practices. Join Co-op America now and get a free copy of the National Green Pages™ print directory.
Concerned about affordability? Many Co-op America business members offer discounts exclusively for Co-op America members. These are listed in the print edition of the National Green Pages and in our members-only green living newsletter, Real Money. Join now.
3. Buy Second-Hand! Clothing, dishes, pots and pans, furniture, toys -- whatever you need can probably be found in thrift stores and consignment shops! There are some gems to be found! Plus, some of the latest trends in clothing and house wares are styled to look “used” or “antique." So why not hunt down the real thing?
4. Trade, Barter, Recycle. Check out the following online resources for ways to find what you need by trading with others or buying used items for less than new.
5. Buy Less. Big box stores spend huge sums of money figuring out to maximize the amount you’ll spend in their stores once they’ve convinced you to enter. Make an effort to avoid impulse purchases and focus on only buying what you need.
Our Real Money newsletter provides a tips to help you spend less and save more. Get Real Money now.
6. Talk to your friends! Share the news that Big Box discounts may not be as appealing as they seem -- and that they come with costs far beyond their savings.
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