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Customer services:
Transactions in discount operations are usually made for cash, although a number of such stores today accept checks or bank credit cards or offer credit plans of their own. Refund policies are generally liberal: money back if the goods are returned unused in a specified number of days. Delivery service, if available, is usually restricted to bulky items and often involves an extra charge. Limited fitting-room service for trying on apparel may sometimes be found. Paperwork is kept to a minimum. The cash-register receipt often serves as a sales slip, and refunds are usually made in cash, eliminating credit slips and extensive bookkeeping.
Selling services:
In discount store selling, frills are eliminated. Merchandise is stocked on racks or tables and customers help themselves. Self-service prevails. Employees are present only to direct customers and straighten the stock. Customers make their se· lections and then take them to a cashier's desk where sales are rung up.
Promotional activities:
Today, discount stores are highly promotional. They are heavy users of all types of advertising, including newspaper radio, and direct mail. Advertising always emphasizes low price and, in many cases, comparative prices. Interior displays are used mainly to identify the location of merchandise; they playa relatively minor role in the store's promotional efforts. Window displays in some leading discount chains, however, are well planned and attractive.
Fashion coordination: In spite of the gradual upgrading of some merchandising techniques, there is little evidence that discount stores try to coordinate their fashion apparel and accessories offerings.
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Participants