When a company raises prices by a large percentage, then declares a sale on the same items for a smaller percentage, giving the impression of big savings but in reality pocketing higher profits than usual. References Little House on the Prairie episode "Harriet's Happenings" (1978) in which the Mrs. Oleson raises the price of her goods 50% but advertises a 30% discount. "We'll make a 20% profit!"
by KittenWithaWhip December 01, 2011