Retail’s secret solution to the problem of endless returns

“Just keep it” refunds are now common in the United States, where the annual retail value of wrong-sized/unwanted goods is almost $US1 trillion.

Joe Miller

Jun 7, 2024 – 5.00am

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Once again, my vanity had got the better of me. A pair of “slim fit” beige corduroys ordered from Target, it transpired, could not be fastened without the help of a mechanical winch.

The bigger surprise, however, came when I attempted to return the trousers and was promptly issued a refund along with the following message: “Feel free to keep it, recycle or donate it! If the item was damaged, please dispose of it safely. Thanks for your help!”

Financial Times