As I mentioned last month, Durban is spoilt for choice when it comes to factory shops, but it’s not only in Durban and surrounds that you will find factory shops. Often, it is in the most unlikely of places that you will stumble upon a great find. For instance, if you amble along the Midlands Meander, you will find some cool and quirky factory shops with some amazing gems! Sometimes you need to travel further afield to find something unique.
Whether you’re shopping local or travelling further afield, here are some handy tips for factory shopping:
Wear comfortable shoes. This is a must – I have learnt from experience! If you are going on a major spree, you could be traipsing the streets for hours on end and there is nothing worse than having sore feet! Also, wear comfortable clothes and wear layers – if you get hot you can peel off the layers as you go.
Take a friend – shopping is always more fun with a friend! You will have some company, and you can give each other a second opinion on garments. It’s also safer to travel in pairs if you are going to an isolated or industrial area.
Don’t expect fancy change rooms – or any at all! Consider wearing tights and a vest under your clothes in case there are no change rooms and you want to try something on.
If you are travelling far afield, it’s best to phone the factory shop first, as factory shops often work irregular hours or can close down without warning. I’ve been caught out this way before!
Not all factory shops will exchange garments, so it is a good idea to have your and your family’s measurements on you when you go factory shopping, to make sure you are buying the correct sizes. As not all garments have size labels, so this will take some of the guesswork out of the equation!
Phone ahead to make sure the shop you are visiting accepts cards – you might have to take cash with you. BUT if you do carry cash, please be aware of your safety at all times and don’t carry huge amounts of cash.
If you are going to food factory shops, make sure you travel with a cooler bag/box in your car, so that if you buy any frozen or cold products, they will stay fresh in your car for the duration of your shopping trip.
Check for flaws. Look for holes by holding the garment up to the light. Often holes are found on items that have the label removed or cut through, or there will be a coloured sticker where the hole is.
Plan your route. Know in advance which factory shops you want to visit, and plan the route so you visit them in a logical order, instead of driving all over town haphazardly and retracing steps. This will save you time and petrol!
Don’t carry a handbag. If you are going to isolated or industrial areas and are worried about theft, it’s best not to carry a handbag. Rather keep your debit card in your pocket or carry a small keyring purse with a zipper that you can conceal in your hand.
Don’t take your kids! This might seem like a strange tip, but I know from experience that kids don’t like being dragged around from pillar to post. They become tired and whiny and you will end up having to cut your shopping spree short! Do it while they are at school or leave them with granny or a sitter.
Most of all – have fun! You can find some great deals at factory shops, so go ahead and spoil yourself this month!
By Sarah Mackintosh.