LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — 2020 has been incredibly challenging for all businesses, but the National Retail Federation estimates an increase in shopping this ‘Super Saturday’ compared to 2019.
The NRF predicts more than 150 million shoppers will head to stores on Super Saturday, which surpasses the 147.8 million consumers businesses saw in 2019.
With Christmas day less than a week away, many are entering the final stretch to finish their holiday shopping.
“I am very, very close. I have a couple of other things I need to pick up from around town. I’ve got some curbside pick up items that are on our list to do today and we wanted to do some final little stocking stuffers and gift basket items here,” said shopper Taylor Roden.
Shoppers at the Julietta Market in Lexington sorted through several shops on Super Saturday looking for final holiday gifts.
“It’s going really well,” said Urban Magnolia Market owner Kobe Johnson. “People are out and about shopping and enjoying their last second of trying to find the perfect holiday gift for their friends and family.”
“We’re actually a lot busier than we thought we’d be with this pandemic,” said Poppy and Pomelo co-owner Caitlyn Edwards.
42-percent of shoppers surveyed by the NRF indicated they plan to solely shop online. However, many are keeping local businesses and the struggles they’ve faced this year in mind.
“I did do some online shopping for my larger items, but I tried to do more local items for the other little things,” said Roden.
“It just felt right to do local shopping this year. We’re trying to avoid doing big store stuff and helping local businesses,” said shopper Carolyn Hassert.
The NRF estimates sales will increase between 3.6 and 5.2 percent in 2020, bringing in between $755.3 billion and $766.7 billion to the U.S. economy.
The organization’s survey also found 66-percent of holiday shoppers are planning to take advantage of post-holiday sales and will continue shopping into the New Year.
