Consumer News - News of Austin

Cluttered return bin overflowing with discarded holiday packaging and broken toys with soft golden sunset light on city stree

Holiday Returns Surge: 17% of Purchases, 25-30% More Carbon Impact

Julia N. Fairmont December 30, 2025

At a Glance 17% of holiday purchases will be returned this year. Returns add 25-30% more carbon emissions per item. Roughly one-third of returned...

Person sits on plush couch in living room with large window showing rolling hills and inspirational quotes on wall.

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Soft Saving: Balancing Today’s Joy With Tomorrow’s Security

Brianna Q. Lockwood December 30, 2025

{brand} - If you've ever decided to save less cash in your retirement account so you could do more traveling or support an expensive hobby, you might...

Person sits holding an unopened gift card on a cluttered desk with a half‑full coffee mug and stacks of cash envelopes

Business News Consumer News

40% of Americans Hold Unused Gift Cards Worth $244 Each

Brianna Q. Lockwood December 30, 2025

At a Glance 40% of Americans have unused gift cards Average balance is $244, up from under $200 in 2023 Many cards are kept unused because of store...

Woman holding a flashlight with candles and a laptop on the counter in a dim kitchen during a power outage.

Consumer News Local News News

Power Outage Prep: Experts Share Survival Tips

Julia N. Fairmont December 30, 2025

At a Glance Power outages can stem from storms, heat waves, wildfires, or a delivery driver. Preparedness is key to staying safe during...

Frazzled shopper examining a torn receipt with a cluttered return bin full of holiday returns and a calendar showing January

Business News Consumer News

Retailers Extend Holiday Return Windows, But Electronics Face Tighter Rules

Brianna Q. Lockwood December 30, 2025

At a Glance Many retailers extend holiday return windows to 30-90 days through late January. Extensions usually only apply to items bought...

Person sits on couch with warm golden lighting and frosty windows in a cozy winter home and a visible thermostat

Business News Consumer News

Winter Bills Rise as Heating, Fridges, and Water Heaters Use More Energy

Fiona Z. Merriweather December 30, 2025

At a Glance Winter heating, fridges, and water heaters use more energy, pushing bills higher. Experts recommend lowering thermostats, unplugging...

Beef steak and coffee beans sit with vibrant fruits and vegetables and flowers at a farmers market under warm golden light.

Business News Consumer News

Inflation Eases, Yet Grocery Prices Surge: Beef 25%, Coffee 35%

Hannah E. Clearwater December 30, 2025

At a Glance Inflation eases but grocery prices still climb, with beef up to 25% and coffee up to 35%. Tariffs on beef and coffee imports have been...

Cashier looks up from computer with cluttered return counter and shoppers waiting for holiday gifts.

Business News Consumer News

Holiday Return Fees Surge: What Shoppers Need to Know

Isaac Y. Thornwell December 28, 2025

After the holiday rush, shoppers who return gifts may face a new cost that could dent their holiday budget. Return Fees Are on the Rise A 2025...

Jars of Choceur holiday bark treats rest on a wooden table with a red tablecloth near a cozy Christmas tree

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Aldi Holiday Bark Recall: Pecan and Wheat Allergens Found in Choceur Products

Hannah E. Clearwater December 28, 2025

A sudden alert on Tuesday saw Aldi shoppers urged to discard certain holiday bark treats after Silvestri Sweets discovered undeclared allergens in...

Unactivated gift card lies on cluttered kiosk counter with abandoned cards and a faded Activated screen

Consumer News Local News

Texas Officials Arrest Three Men in $14 Million Gift Card Scam

Aiden V. Crossfield December 28, 2025

Three Texas men have been arrested by the Texas Financial Crimes Intelligence Center for a $14 million gift card fraud that began in May 2025,...