Retailers Are Sitting On Record High Inventories: What That Means For Black Friday Shoppers

Dell Technologies Inc DELL has too many computers on hand, while Nike Inc. NKE is flooded with summer fashion. Additionally, simple clothing like T-shirts and shorts are in abundance at Gap Inc GPS.

After dealing with product shortages for the majority of the pandemic, U.S. retailers are now dealing with the opposite issue: a historic surplus of unsold goods that is eroding profitability, derailing Christmas preparations, and posing a risk to the growth of the U.S. economy as a whole.

Read also: The Goods Deflation We've Been Waiting For, Just In Time For The Holidays

What Happened: Retailers held a record $910 billion in inventory as of September, up 24% from the previous year, according to Census Bureau data.

As reflected by corporate filings and conference calls, many of the nation's biggest retailers are reacting by starting their holiday sales earlier than ever in an effort to free up space in their warehouses for a fresh batch of seasonal shipments.

Target Corporation TGT began its winter selling frenzy recently with $6 hoodies and half-off TVs.

A second Prime Day deal was held by Amazon.com, Inc. AMZN fewer than three months after the first. Numerous private brands are also providing deep blanket discounts both online and in-person, including J. Crew and Nine West.

Retailers are being dealt a one-two punch: High inventories already commanding discounts and markdowns, and a Black Friday quickly followed by a Cyber Monday that leads to additional discounts.

For shoppers, this means getting some great holiday deals. Here are some of the best Black Friday offers right now.

Amazon: The mega-retailer is offering markdowns on every category imaginable.

Meme favorite Bed Bath & Beyond Inc's BBBY Black Friday deals are already active, with up to 25% off your purchase on Cyber Monday.

Best Buy Co Inc BBY kicked off Black Friday discounts early, offering deals on all kinds of electronics, including the latest tech gifts.

Walmart Inc WMT: Walmart’s Black Friday Deals for Days event brings discounts across every category, from home to tech to toys to vacuums.

Wayfair Inc W: Wayfair has begun offering Black Friday discounts on a variety of items, including furniture, and much more.

Target: The retailer is launching deals weekly, and a new Deal of the Day is chosen daily.

Nordstrom Inc JWN: Through November 29, Nordstrom is marking down popular brands for men, women, and children as well as upscale home goods.

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