Haggling returns as consumers’ disposable income takes a hit

Haggling is returning to Britain's high streets as cash-strapped consumers hunt for bargains.

According to Richard Lloyd, executive director of consumer watchdog Which?, negotiating on price is par for the course when disposable incomes take a hit.

Speaking to the Independent, the financial expert said: "Haggling for a bargain doesn't have to be confined to the markets of Marrakesh.

"There's nothing to lose in asking for a lower price, especially at a time when everyone is feeling the pinch."

Which? found that 43 per cent of shoppers have attempted to haggle in the past year, with many using an online price as a means of securing a discount.

In fact, 62 per cent of hagglers armed with a cheaper online price had succeeded in getting a high street retailer to match it.

But it is not just haggling that is becoming commonplace on the high street. Cashback site Quidco claimed that its members spend more than half an hour a week comparing prices at high street shops before making a purchase.

Posted by Paul Thacker