Watch CBS News

Inside the Liquidation Sale at Sports Authority

CHICAGO (CBS) -- The going out of business sale at Sports Authority is on, but are shoppers really getting a good deal?

CBS 2's Dorothy Tucker takes a look at how liquidation sales really work.

Shoppers, lured by huge signs promising good deals, rushed in to snag bargains at Sports Authority.

Josh Vervack, who bought some golf balls and tennis balls, figured he saved 5 percent to 10 percent and was more than satisfied.

"I looked on Amazon, and as I soon as I saw the going out of business sale I saw they had better prices," Vervack said.

Tyler Tomlinson was less impressed, saying he saw better deals online for a Nike Dry Fit shirt.

CBS 2 also found better deals online.

A Brooks Glycerin 13 women's running shoes had a Sports Authority shelf price of $149.99. The 10 percent going out of business discount, dropped it to about $135. A quick Google search showed the same shoe for as little as $119.

The editor at Deal News said that in general that liquidation sales don't often beat prices found online.

Don't blame Sports Authority.

"You have to remember that liquidations are often handled by third-party companies that make big money off these sales," said Benjamin Glaser.

If you're among the shoppers who have spent some $90 million on Sports Authority gift cards, get to the store soon. The liquidator will only honor the cards until June 25.

Sports Authority is closing at the end of August, so the best time to get the lowest prices will be about the middle of that month.

However, selection will be limited.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.