Deals offered up on day after Christmas

To combat a less than merry shopping season, many retailers slashed prices and extended hours to try and boost holiday sales Friday; many shoppers were ready to take advantage.

Stephanie Lewis, an early shopper said, “I got here at 5 o’clock this morning, when the mall opened so I wouldn’t have to worry about the crowds.”

Not everyone woke up to beat the bargain hunter rush.

At the Best Buy on College Road, shoppers saw warning signs of the crowds ahead by 10 a.m. Lucas Coleman was out spending his Christmas cash. “When we pulled into the parking lot and every slot was full we knew we were going to be in for it.”

But with many items starting at 50% off, the focus was deep discounts. Stores did their part to try and create interest on different items by offering unique packages.

At Target on New Center Drive, people were already getting ready for next Christmas. For some, it wasn’t the discounts, but their families that brought them out. Mary King said, “Well I was having computer problems and I have my son in-law here over the weekend and while he’s here he can help me set it up.”

But even they enjoyed the deals. “We actually got a good buy on the computer that we bought.”

We won’t have a clear idea of the sales’ success until January 8th when stores report their December sales, but many retailers say they will continue to add new promotions next year to try and boost sales.