BURLINGTON, Mass. — Black Friday shopping has begun. But unlike in past years, many stores didn’t open their doors until 6 a.m. this morning. Still, places like the Burlington Mall were full of shoppers right when the doors opened to take advantage of those deep discounts.
Planning on doing some Black Friday shopping? Most stores don’t open until 6 am. Not seeing the crazy long lines like we’ve seen in the past. pic.twitter.com/lKKleQTcH7
— Kelly Sullivan (@ksullivannews) November 26, 2021
The National Retail Federation is predicting a record-breaking holiday shopping season, with nearly two million more people shopping this year from Thanksgiving Day through Cyber Monday. In a survey, the National Retail Federation found that 64% of customers on Black Friday will shop in stores, in comparison to the 51% from last year when COVID concerns kept people home. Consumers are expected to spend a record amount—an average of about $1,000 this holiday season.
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Some shoppers tell Boston 25 they started early because the deals were already there, but still, they would be up bright and early Friday morning.
“I try to beat the crowds. You know when the doors open, I will be there,” said Myra Halstead of Framingham.
Others told Boston 25 New they steer clear of Black Friday shopping.
“It’s too crowded, I’ve been around too long, and I don’t want to fight the crowds,” said Richard Rainer of Ashland. “I let my wife and daughters do their thing if they want to, but I stay away.”
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The National Retail Federation is predicting a record-breaking holiday shopping season, with nearly two million more people shopping this year from Thanksgiving day through cyber Monday. Consumers are expected to spend a record amount—about $1,000 this holiday season. pic.twitter.com/9fRQ1KNNmM
— Kelly Sullivan (@ksullivannews) November 26, 2021
An estimated 158 million people are expected to shop this Thanksgiving weekend, up by two million compared to last year but still below pre-pandemic levels.
And what are they buying? According to the NRF’s survey, clothing topped the list, followed by gift cards, toys, then books/music/movies and video games, and finally food and candy.
Some things never get old. According to the NRF, the top toy for boys this year? Legos. The top toy for girls? Barbie.
Experts are saying because of the inventory and supply chain issues, it’s best to get something you like because it might not be there later.
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