Nov 15, 2009 7:22 pm US/Eastern
Local Retailers Gear Up For Holiday Season
BALTIMORE (WJZ) ―
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The day after Thanksgiving will launch what is hoped to be one of the busiest retail seasons in recent years.
CBS4
Get those shopping shoes on. The 2009 holiday shopping season is fast approaching. The day after Thanksgiving will launch what is hoped to be one of the busiest retail seasons in recent years.
Tim Williams tells us what Maryland retailers are expecting.
The stage is set. Black Friday is less than two weeks away and excitement begins as shoppers are set to hit malls and retailers are expecting a hearty holiday shopping rush.
"The bleeding is over, but the patient is still recuperating. The economy is still not where we'd like it, but it's better than it was a year ago," said Tom Saquella, president of the Maryland Retailers Association.
Saquella points out that last year many stores sat virtually quiet amidst consumers shell shocked during a global financial meltdown. But a recent review of retail industry data shows merchants are positive, despite a still challenging sales environment.
"We're forecasting a small increase, but that's better than the previous two years, where we had declines. We think the economy is starting to come and shoppers will be out there the way they normally are," Saquella said.
Retailers say electronics will likely drive sales this holiday, followed by clothing for men and toys for children. Expect retailers to draw you in with very aggressive prices and competitive sales.
The message is shop early and shop often, especially if you want the best selection--inventories are very tight.
"I've learned a long time ago in this business never underestimate the American consumer and it's pretty hard to kill Santa Claus," Saquella said. "We think Santa Claus is alive and well this year."
More than 50% of Maryland retailers surveyed are optimistic this year, compared to 20% last year.
(© MMX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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