Shopping for lighting, furniture or décor can feel like you’re decoding a secret language. Words like “markup,” “discount,” and “ROI” pop up everywhere, but most people just skim past them. Below you’ll get clear, bite‑size definitions so you can shop smarter and keep your wallet happy.
Retailers often talk about “markup” when they set a price. Markup is the amount added on top of the wholesale cost – basically, the profit they want. If a couch costs the store £200 wholesale and they add a 50% markup, the retail price becomes £300. Margin, on the other hand, is the percentage of the final price that’s profit. Using the same numbers, the margin would be £100 ÷ £300 = 33%.
Why does this matter? Knowing the markup helps you gauge whether a price feels fair. If you see a 200% markup on a simple nightstand, it might be worth hunting for a better deal.
Seeing a “30% off” badge is satisfying, but the real value depends on the original price. A £500 lamp discounted to £350 saves you £150 – a solid deal if the lamp fits your style. Clearance items, however, often come with a higher risk: limited stock, no returns, or older models. Make sure the discount doesn’t hide a quality compromise.
Another term to watch is “sale price vs. regular price.” Some retailers inflate the “regular” price just to make the discount look bigger. If you’ve seen the same product listed at the same price a few weeks ago, the deal might be a bluff.
Lastly, keep an eye on “promo codes.” Those are like secret coupons you enter at checkout. They can cut a few more pounds off an already discounted item, especially during seasonal sales.
Understanding these money terms gives you the confidence to ask the right questions: Is the markup justified? Does the discount truly save me money? Can I return a clearance item if it doesn’t work?
Next time you browse Illuminate by Beth, use this quick glossary to spot real value. Remember, a good price is not just about the number on the tag, but about how it fits your budget, style, and long‑term use.
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