Five Below been lying a little bit lately👀😂

It's true, walking into Five Below these days can be a bit of a head-scratcher! I used to go in with the absolute certainty that every single item would be $5 or less. My budget was set, my expectations clear. But lately, just like many of you, I've noticed a significant shift. Suddenly, I'm seeing everything from $7 tech gadgets to $10 home decor pieces and even $8 collectibles. It really makes you pause and ask, 'When was the last time anything was actually five below?' This change isn't just a random occurrence; Five Below has actually evolved its business model. Back in 2019, they introduced what they call the 'Five Beyond' section. This was their way of expanding beyond the traditional $1-$5 price point to offer a wider array of products, especially in categories like tech, home goods, and popular licensed merchandise that simply can't be sold profitably for under $5. Think about it: a decent pair of headphones or a trending pop culture collectible often costs more to produce than $5. So, to keep up with consumer demand and offer more variety, they ventured into these higher price tiers. I remember browsing the tech aisle recently and doing a double-take at a pair of Bluetooth earbuds priced at $10. My initial thought was, 'Wait, am I in the right store?' But then I realized this was part of their 'Five Beyond' strategy. While it can be a bit jarring if you're not expecting it, it does mean they can stock items that are genuinely useful or highly sought after, even if they come with a slightly higher price tag. This move allows them to compete with other discount retailers that might offer a similar range of products. So, how do you navigate Five Below now that the 'five below' rule isn't absolute? My strategy has changed. Instead of assuming everything is dirt cheap, I now go in with a more open mind, treating it like a treasure hunt. I still look for those incredible $1-$5 deals, especially for party supplies, basic crafts, or small impulse buys. But I also check out the 'Five Beyond' section for potential bargains on tech accessories (like those $7 or $8 phone chargers or screen protectors), trendy home items, or unique gifts that might be $10 but still represent good value compared to other stores. It’s all about managing expectations. Yes, the core of Five Below is still about affordable fun and value, but they've added a new dimension. For millennial parents like me, it means I can find items for my kids that are a bit more durable or high-quality, even if they cost a few dollars more. And for anyone dealing with #InflationLife, finding a $10 item that meets a need, rather than paying $20 elsewhere, can still feel like a win. It's a different shopping experience, but with a little adjustment, you can still find some amazing 'beyond' deals!