UPDATE: Black Friday shoppers across upstate New York are undeterred by snowy weather, hitting the stores in droves for deals that are expected to set new records. Reports indicate that consumers will spend over $1 trillion in the U.S. this holiday season, marking a historic high.
Early birds like Tina Douglas of Richfield Springs arrived at Kohl’s at 4 a.m. to secure their spot among the first 100 customers. “We were numbers 15 through 19 in line,” Douglas said, proudly sharing how her family already filled their Jeep with holiday treasures. This enduring tradition showcases the resilience and enthusiasm of shoppers, even in challenging weather.
Meanwhile, Mary Hawks and her family made their way to Sangertown Square Mall in New Hartford, continuing a beloved family ritual. “It’s something we’ve done every Black Friday since the beginning,” she explained, highlighting the nostalgic atmosphere of the mall.
Shelley E. Kohan, a retail expert from Syracuse University, forecasted a 3% increase in sales this holiday season. However, she cautioned that inflation is a significant factor in this rise. “Part of that 3% is due to higher prices,” Kohan noted, emphasizing that shoppers are more value-conscious than ever.
As consumers seek the best deals, Kohan reported a surge in the use of buy now, pay later options and cashback apps. “We’ve seen a tremendous increase in consumers using AI tools like Chat GPT for shopping assistance,” she added, indicating a shift in buying behaviors.
Kohan also issued a warning to shoppers: “If you see a promotional price, buy it. Stockouts may occur later in the season due to fewer items being carried by retailers.” This year, many stores have reduced their inventory, which could lead to more out-of-stock scenarios as holiday shopping ramps up.
Despite the snow, shoppers expressed their commitment to exploring the deals and upholding traditions. “The little bit of snow we’re getting is no big deal. We live in upstate New York!” Douglas stated, urging others to shop local on Small Business Saturday, given her family’s own farm shop.
Experts predict that electronics, toys, apparel, and pet items will dominate gift lists this year, making it crucial for shoppers to act quickly. “Come to this mall; it’s worth it for the decorations and the nostalgic feeling,” Hawks encouraged fellow shoppers.
With the holiday shopping season now in full swing, shoppers are encouraged to take advantage of early deals while they last. As the demand surges, retailers and consumers alike are navigating a new landscape shaped by inflation and changing shopping habits.
Stay tuned for more updates as Black Friday continues to unfold and record-breaking spending patterns emerge.
