Retailers Start Xmas Deals — 4 Months Before Christmas

Desperate times call for desperate measures. People used to wait for Christmas and Thanksgiving to buy the things they wanted at a bargain — well, now there is no need to wait.

How early did retailers start holiday shopping in 2013?

Even before the school bells were ringing for many families, retailers were sounding sleigh bells. Yes, that's right. With 120-plus shopping days left, stores were already talking up their holiday offers — as CNBC's Kelli B. Grant reported at the time.

What was Walmart's 2013 holiday play?

Walmart led the way toward very early holiday shopping. In front of 6,000 Walmart associates at the company's annual holiday meeting, chief merchandising and marketing officer Duncan Mac Naughton introduced free layaway with no opening fee. Beginning Sept. 13 through Dec. 13, layaway would kick off the retailer's official start to the holiday season.

"Times are tough and it's not easy for many Americans — they are watching every penny," said Mac Naughton. "All year long, but especially during the holidays, our customers need a low price leader. This year, we are committed to doing everything we did last year to help Americans save money — plus more. More savings, more layaway items and our commitment that they can give their families a great Christmas on a budget."

Details of the layaway program

Should you wait before holiday shopping?

Customers should probably wait for their holiday shopping and let the retailers become more creative and innovative in their sales strategies. Online shopping has grown by leaps and bounds — the online retailer Amazon grew by 30% last year, while most of the brick-and-mortars were fighting for survival. The retailing industry is truly becoming the consumer's market. One good thing about a recession is that retailers have to become super efficient and creative to even get a dollar from the consumer.

Here's hoping that instead of just Cyber Mondays or Black Fridays, some retailer will come up with something absolutely innovative to get your money!