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Return, regift or recycle?
It's a big question this week, as Americans sift through holiday gifts — including hideous sweaters, toys that are already broken and coffee mugs emblazoned with silly sayings.
Consumers buy and receive a lot of products that don't measure up to expectations, especially at this time of year. Americans returned merchandise worth $743 billion in 2023, or 14.5% of sale proceeds, according to a new study by the National Retail Federation and analytics company Appriss Retail.
But sometimes we find another recipient for an unwanted gift. Then there are those objects beyond any possible salvaging, which end up in a trash can or hopefully a recycling bin.
And an untold number simply collect dust along with other past presents, waiting for some eventual use — or until they escape limbo during the next holiday season.
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Learn moreThe Giving Guide helps nonprofits have the opportunity to showcase and differentiate their organizations so that businesses better understand how they can contribute to a nonprofit’s mission and work.
Work for ME is a workforce development tool to help Maine’s employers target Maine’s emerging workforce. Work for ME highlights each industry, its impact on Maine’s economy, the jobs available to entry-level workers, the training and education needed to get a career started.
Few people are adequately prepared for all the tasks involved in planning and providing care for aging family members. SeniorSmart provides an essential road map for navigating the process. This resource guide explores the myriad of care options and offers essential information on topics ranging from self-care to legal and financial preparedness.
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Return, regift or recycle?
It's a big question this week, as Americans sift through holiday gifts — including hideous sweaters, toys that are already broken and coffee mugs emblazoned with silly sayings.
Consumers buy and receive a lot of products that don't measure up to expectations, especially at this time of year. Americans returned merchandise worth $743 billion in 2023, or 14.5% of sale proceeds, according to a new study by the National Retail Federation and analytics company Appriss Retail.
But sometimes we find another recipient for an unwanted gift. Then there are those objects beyond any possible salvaging, which end up in a trash can or hopefully a recycling bin.
And an untold number simply collect dust along with other past presents, waiting for some eventual use — or until they escape limbo during the next holiday season.