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How COVID-19 will impact holiday shopping

Posted at 6:23 PM, Oct 08, 2020
and last updated 2020-10-08 18:24:15-04

LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — It's no secret the coronavirus has changed the way we do things, especially shopping. So, it's no wonder the Kentucky Retail Federation says local stores are already preparing for holiday sales.

The Kentucky Retail Federation is expecting fewer lines this year on black Friday. Because of that, the federation says stores, local and nationally owned, are telling consumers to start shopping earlier.

"Inventory has just not caught up shutdowns from earlier this year. Some goods, like electronic goods, the production has not caught up yet," Steve McClain, Communications Director for the Kentucky Retail Federation said.

On top of that, the Retail Federation is anticipating people will shop online more than ever before. So, some retailers will be hiring fewer people to work on the floor.

"We expect retailers will be hiring people to do those fulfillment orders in the store and then bringing them out to your car," McClain said.

The Kentucky Retail Federation says although many people experienced financial difficulties this year due to cCOVID-19, they are predicting consumers will spend the same amount of money as last year.

"What they buy, will be different. They may be looking to buy things more to do at home. You know, games, or puzzles, gaming consoles," McClain said.