Holiday Shopping Sales Already On Offer In Digital Age
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Move over window shoppers, holiday shopping has gone into high gear and it's go time for bargain hunters.
And this year, the key to scoring big discounts could boil down to technology and timing, CBS2's Hazel Sanchez reported.
"The adrenaline starts pumping when you're racing through the stores trying to take the last one," said shopper Keisha Rose.
Retail experts expect sales to be up 4 percent this holiday season, and they credit part of that boost on smart phones.
Research suggests half of all transactions during the holidays will have something to do with a digital or mobile device.
"It could mean you're looking at your phone on an app and you see a great sale across the mall from where you are," said CBS Senior Business Analyst Jill Slezinger. "Retailers are getting really smart, they've hired computer programmers, they are looking for algorithms and saying how can we get people into our stores."
That includes emailing coupons that can be used in stores, however, some shoppers choose never to leave the comfort of their own home and shop online.
"Better than going out and dealing with that mess of shoppers out there," said William Washington.
And for the homebodies who might not want to wait for Cyber Monday, "The best day for cyber deals would be on Thanksgiving Day. So I guess that means you can sneak off from your families and go buy something," said Slezinger.
The second best day is the Monday before Thanksgiving, Sanchez reported.
"The pressure is on now!" said shopper Camilla Smith.
And the third best bargain day is Black Friday, followed by Cyber Monday.
"We're gonna go online. We're gonna get those shopping deals and get ready for the holidays!" said one shopper.
Retail experts said even though online shopping continues to be a popular option, the recent drop in gas prices could help boost holiday sales in stores.
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