The supply chain may not be the Grinch that steals Christmas, after all. Despite concerns of shortages, major retailers such as Walmart and Target say they’re well-stocked for the holidays, and consumers are definitely finding things to buy. But your gift list isn’t in the clear just yet.
Employers are still struggling to find workers. Microchip production is still struggling to meet demand. And good luck buying a PlayStation 5 for retail — or finding good prices on laptops and TVs.
Here’s an overview of 13 products and categories that have been impacted by the supply chain, and where things stand with them right now. And if you stay tuned ’til the end, you’ll find a comprehensive list of in-stock Black Friday deals from Walmart, Best Buy and more.
The supply chain story here is not of empty shelves; it’s of scarce parts and microchips leading to higher prices — or, a shortage of deals, if you will.
Stephen Baker of the market research firm the GDP Group told CNET that TV prices are at their highest level “since at least 2012,” and that holiday shoppers should expect to spend “at least $100 above normal” on a set.
Sure enough, in poking around Black Friday sales, the cheaper TV, like the $398, 70-inch Roku TV at Walmart, was harder to put in our cart than a higher-end model, like the 65-inch, LG OLED smart TV, which even on sale at Best Buy, costs $1,800. But restocks happen, so best wishes — and keep clicking.
