Shoppers Brave Snow for Black Friday Deals, Spending Hits $1 Trillion

UPDATE: Upstate New Yorkers are undeterred by a dusting of snow as they rush to snag Black Friday deals, with consumer spending projected to surpass $1 trillion this holiday season. Retail expert Shelley E. Kohan from Syracuse University confirms that November and December 2023 are set to break records for holiday shopping.

Families flocked to local stores early this morning, with Tina Douglas of Richfield Springs arriving at Kohl’s at 4 a.m. to secure her spot among the first 100 shoppers. “We have already filled my Jeep and had to transfer stuff to another vehicle,” Douglas said, emphasizing the excitement around in-person shopping traditions.

Over at Sangertown Square Mall in New Hartford, Mary Hawks shared her family’s commitment to Black Friday shopping, stating, “It’s nice to continue it on with the younger generation.” The mall’s nostalgic atmosphere is a big draw for families, even in the face of winter weather.

Kohan predicts a 3% increase in holiday sales this year, but notes that rising prices due to inflation are a significant factor. “A lot of that 3% is tied up in our inflationary pricing,” Kohan explained, urging consumers to focus on value and be selective with their purchases.

With the rise of buy now, pay later options and cashback apps, shoppers are leveraging technology to maximize their spending power. Kohan also highlighted the increasing use of artificial intelligence tools like Chat GPT to aid in shopping decisions.

However, Kohan cautions consumers to act quickly when they spot promotional prices. “Retailers have pulled back on the number of SKUs, so we might see more out of stocks as the season progresses,” she warned.

As shoppers navigate the sales today, many remain optimistic despite the weather. “The little bit of snow we’re going to get is no big deal,” Douglas stated. “If you get a chance to come to this mall, do it because it’s worth it,” Hawks added, encouraging others to embrace the holiday spirit.

Looking ahead, Kohan predicts that popular gift categories this year will include electronics, toys, apparel, jewelry, beauty products, and items for pets. The call to action is clear: shoppers should seize opportunities while they last, especially with concerns about limited stock.

As the day unfolds, families will continue to create cherished memories while hunting for the best holiday deals, reinforcing the significance of Black Friday as a beloved tradition.