As reported widely, shoppers flocked to malls and big-box stores on
Black Friday, as early as 4 a.m. in many cases, and some stores opened
up Thanksgiving evening. Shoppers were lured by deep discounts, and
while sales were strong, each consumer spent less money, and
more consumers were shopping at discount stores, according to the New York Times.
ShopperTrak RCT estimated sales were $10.3 billion, up 8.3% compared
to last year's Black Friday, and Saturday sales rose 5.4% to $6.1
billion.
The Wall Street Journal
reported that many retailers, who are nervous about the holiday season,
are extending discounts this week in an effort to continue luring shoppers.
And today, Cyber Monday, many online retailers are offering
"one-day sales for the first time and offers akin to those in retail
stores on the Friday after Thanksgiving," according to the Journal.
Last year, online sales the Monday after Thanksgiving were $608
million, up 26% from the same day in 2005. This year some 72% of
e-tailers will offer some special today, including specific deals,
one-day sales and/or free shipping. ComScore predicts online holiday
sales will hit $29.5 billion, up 20% from last year.