You can save a lot with these secret price codes

19.99 euros, 249.98 euros, 1,597 euros – odd prices are a common sight. But what is behind it? A supposed ex-Saturn employee reveals insider tips on how to really get something out of the price – if you know how.

The psychological tricks behind a retail price of, for example, 249.99 euros for the new smartphone are well known. The 249 euros simply seem cheaper than 250 euros, although it makes practically no difference in the retailer’s cash register. But there is obviously more behind the crooked prices.

Saturn employees: Price tags suggest bargains

A former employee in Saturn’s sales department, who he says, is now explaining this. In an AMA (Ask Me Anything) Reddit user CharmingBoar provides information about the secret code behind the price system. The thread is not verified, so the statements should be treated with caution. But the tips are reliable and you can finally give it a try.

It is said that attentive customers should be able to identify good chances of a bargain if they take a closer look at the last digit in the prices of interesting products (source: Reddit): A “7” in the last position – whether in the euro or cent range is not decisive – stands for “old goods”. It could be “theoretically older than 3 months, realistically older than 6 months”, so from the retailer’s point of view it is well on the way to becoming a slow seller.

If you find something suitable here, you can let her or his negotiating skills play. Because the traders want to get rid of the goods – “there can be really negotiated”, that’s the assessment. With an “8” at the end, Saturn would have a large margin, but also a good chance of selling without a discount. The chance of bargaining down the price here is slim.

You can see how you can save when shopping online here:

On the other hand, we probably see the prices that end in a “9” most often. These are the standard items, and success in haggling is practically impossible. Another insight: According to CharmingBoar, Saturn is the Largest margin for accessories such as charging cables. Accordingly, the opportunity to secure a good deal is better here than anywhere else.

Smartphones would also have a good margin. However, the good offers would usually be offered in a contract deal. With technical devices in general, i.e. the bulk of the Saturn range, the possibility of a price reduction is lower. the The best deals are generally available on Black Friday.

Attention: There is no guarantee of success when haggling

But beware: The Reddit thread also emphasizes that not every market proceeds in the same way. So even if you come across a price that fits the scheme, it also depends on your own negotiating skills as to whether you can still do something about the price. If you want to try it, you should also get the Take time to stop by the store during the week. If it’s particularly busy on Saturdays or just before the end of the day, it’s already difficult enough – even for the employees – to find time to talk to you.

We have contacted Saturn for comments on the pricing information and will update it here as soon as it is available.