Next time a retail store advertises a big sale, check the price tag to see if it's really a deal.

Kohl's stores in Maryland and Virginia are marking up prices before they go on sale, according to WJLA—the DC affiliate of ABC. There is a Kohl's store in Severna Park located at 575 Ritchie Highway.

The price of a Vera Wang sheet set originally marked $89.99 is now $149.99 before it goes on sale for 60 percent off, the TV station reported.

Kohl's responded to the report saying that changes to the original prices were made infrequently and that their prices are determined by the company's merchandise buyers.

"Kohl's does not raise “regular” or “original” prices on a short term basis just for purposes of offering deeper discounts during a future sales event," Kohl's wrote in its  response to ABC7. 

Read Kohl's full response and the full story on ABC7's website.

If true, is this a sneaky or smart business practice? Tell us in the comments.