I work in the Fine Jewelry dept and when I check an item's price on the snik or whatever that barely functioning hand held device is, I always check the next weeks price too. Last week I noticed that a bunch of clearance jewelry was going to be more expensive this week than it was last week and I thought that was strange. I also noticed this same trend for a few shirts I was interested in for work. More expensive this week although they are fall/winter items.
I now think that this is due to the anticipation that associates might want to stock up before they lose their discount.
I don't think the new points systems is going to work on any level. SYW doesn't work now with customers, yes, customers always missing points so what makes anyone think this will be any better?