Go big or go home
When it comes to making big-ticket transactions, the era of gun-shy customers is pretty solidly in the past.
It was all the way back in 2010, after all, that a survey by consulting/ research firm SAGE: Survival and Growth Enterprises found that consumers were ready to start making big purchases that they had deferred in 2008 and 2009. Between March and May of that year, there was a roughly 2% jump in the number of consumers shopping for major appliances and furniture.
Today, big-ticket items are a major feather in the cap of retailers like Home Depot, which report stellar quarterly earnings accelerated by major purchases. Just recently, the retailer pulled in 11.9% growth in big-ticket transactions for the fourth quarter, versus a jump of just 3.8% in small-ticket purchases.
Because big boxes aren’t the only stores where big ticket can pack a big punch, here are a few editor-approved selections from the category.
Kohler Numi Intelligent Comfort Height Toilet
Because some customers want the best of everything, Kohler’s most advanced toilet provides personalization up the wazoo, with adjustable ambient-colored lighting; wireless Bluetooth music syncing; a heated seat and foot warmer; and an integrated bidet with a self-cleaning wand, precision air dryer and deodorizing filter. ($6,338.50, kohler.com)
Coast TX7R Flashlight
An unsung hero in the big-ticket game is the investment flashlight, a heavy-duty tool with refined features. The TX7R is designed with law enforcement officials in mind, featuring a Long Range Optic System and a lightweight, impact-resistant body. ($184.99, coastportland.com)
Yeti Tundra Cooler
Yeti does things big, but the Tundra 350 cooler is its biggest. At 19,000 cubic inches (that’s enough room for 82.4 gallons), the cooler is made from a single piece of roto-molded polyethylene, so you can sell this purchase as a lifelong investment. ($1,299.99, yeticoolers.com)
Orca Cooler
The largest-capacity Orca Cooler clocks in at 140 quarts, featuring the same durable, roto-molded construction as the rest, plus an easy-flow drainage spout and a cargo net attachment for added storage. ($599.99, orcacoolers.com)
Whirlpool Smart Top Load Washer & Dryer
Little appeals more as an investment than a technology-forward appliance. This smart laundry pair syncs to the customer’s mobile device for remote control of specialty cycles, tracking of progress and energy usage, and automatically activated WrinkleShield technology. ($1,399 each for washer & electric dryer, whirlpool.com)
Traeger Texas Elite 34 Grill
Wood-fired grilling is reaching new heights thanks to an auger-fed burner, an LED digital thermostat controller, an EZ-drain grease system and electronic auto-start ignition. The true beauty of a wood pellet stove lies in the repeat visits it ensures to keep fueling that fire. ($899.99, traegergrills.com)
Husqvarna PZ54 Zero Turn Lawn Mower
A top-shelf option from Husqvarna, the PZ54 employs a high-performance drive system and a high-productivity cutting deck design for faster cutting speeds with minimal missed spots. A commercial-grade Kawasaki engine provides hefty power and torque in a fuel-efficient package. ($10,399.95, husqvarna.com)
Smeg 50’s Retro Style Refrigerator
This colorful customer favorite represents the best of what appliances can offer in the big-ticket category: an investment for the homeowner who’s ready to select a highly individualized look for their kitchen. ($1,999, smegusa.com)