Whether last-minute shoppers have been too busy until now to Christmas shop, or their procrastination just provides an adrenaline rush, many stores will be open today to oblige them.
Today's Christmas Eve mad dash is expected to be the best holiday season for stores since 2007, and possibly the best ever. With Christmas falling on a Saturday this year, today is a holiday for many U.S. workers.
Marshal Cohen, the chief fashion industry analyst with researcher NPD Group, calls it "Fantastic Friday." He says, "I really do think it's going to be one of the busiest days of the year."
A strong Christmas Eve would be a great holiday gift for retailers. The National Retail Federation says holiday sales could reach $451.5 billion this year, up 3.3 percent over last year. That would be the biggest year-over-year increase since 2006, and the largest total since sales hit a record $452.8 billion in 2007.
Some retailers are trying to stay open as late as they can today. Many Old Navy clothing stores will be open until 7 p.m.
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Sound:
<> 00:07 "running pretty smooth"
Michael Caruso, vice president, Caruso Florist
Florist Michael Caruso says he has more than 400 deliveries for Christmas Eve.
<> 00:12 "and gourmet baskets"
Michael Caruso, vice president, Caruso Florist
Florist Michael Caruso says there are a lot of gifts you can get for the holidays at a florist.
<> 00:07 "running pretty smooth"
Michael Caruso, vice president, Caruso Florist
Florist Michael Caruso says he has more than 400 deliveries for Christmas Eve.
<> 00:12 "and gourmet baskets"
Michael Caruso, vice president, Caruso Florist
Florist Michael Caruso says there are a lot of gifts you can get for the holidays at a florist.
<> 00:10 "the 24th already"
Michael Caruso, vice president, Caruso Florist
Florist Michael Caruso says business has been brisk. ((note: "tomorrow" in cut refers to Friday)) ((watch for dating))
Friday, December 24, 2010
Many stores open today for last-minute shoppers
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