Don't know about you, but I've certainly been noticing that this recession has resulted in a lot more people returning their purchases back to stores. From Costco to Fry's Electronics to Target, I'm seeing much longer lines, especially during times that you'd think that people would be at work and not at the mall waiting in line at the returns counter.

I've been to Costco and Fry's during off hours (weekdays 11:00 AM and 3:30 PM) and have seen fairly constant long lines during several different visits on different days. Definitely many more people in line, and I don't think it's a result of fewer staff taking returns.

This obviously isn't a scientific survey, but I would bet that with so many folks losing their jobs they are realizing that they don't need the non-essentials as much and are therefore returning things.

So if you're planning on returning items back to the store then you may want to give yourself quite a bit more time than you'd usually allow. Also, if the store is open very late, or very early then take advantage of getting their early or late where there should be fewer people out shopping, or returning.

Just an observation that I wanted to share. Have you all been noticing the same?

- Joseph