Holiday returns have become a major headache for retailers

With all the carols sung and eggnog consumed, Americans will now be indulging in a more modern and growing holiday pastime: returning unwanted gifts.

Many shoppers, if they give it any thought, assume those ill-fitting sweaters and unloved blenders will go right back onto store shelves.

But returns, an increasing headache for retailers, are spawning a huge industry of middlemen, technology firms and discount sellers dedicated to figuring out what to do with all those goods. The weeks after Christmas are their busiest time.

http://www.startribune.com/holiday-returns-have-become-a-major-headache-for-retailers/363688491/