FREE PAD, FREE LABOR, FREE CREDIT, FREE LUNCH, UP TO 70% OFF!  If you see a retailer advertising in this manner, look out. This is for the most part hype. There are times to offer specials because of special pricing from the manufacturer and these major savings can be passed on to the consumer as a real value. On a day to day basis offering good values and service is an excellent practice.

Programs such as no interest financing have their place and are effective when the customer needs to budget using a payment plan. Doing this on a continuing basis places the burden of putting the cost of the program somewhere in the overall cost of the product and is not a recommended practice. We have to conclude: "THE CONSUMER PAYS FOR EVERYTHING"

Again, let's focus on what is important. Shopping with a reputable locally owned company will result in better choices and make your shopping experience a pleasant one.