We’re just shy of being exactly six months away from Black Friday, which falls on Friday, November 26, 2010. Last year, the economy was dismal and while the number of shoppers hitting stores on Black Friday increased, average spending went down. The National Retail Federation reports that 195 million consumers shopped over Black Friday weekend (up from 172 million in 2008), but spent an average of $343.31 per person versus $372.57 per person the previous year.
On the other hand, Cyber Monday continues to grow in popularity. CNNMoney.com reports that Cyber Monday sales climbed 14% from 2008 to 2009 and online shoppers bought 10% more per order compared to those who braved the crowded stores.
We think Cyber Monday will be bigger than ever in 2010, but what’s left to be determined is how brick-and-mortar stores will respond- better in-store deals or a bigger online presence?
