Most analysts expect that post-Christmas shopping, which in recent years has given an extra boost to the holiday season, will be slower this year as people buy fewer items for themselves and gift card sales decline. Gift cards aren't counted as a sale until after they're redeemed. Analysts said fewer people will buy gift cards this year because they can get a better deal on discounted merchandise. Others are afraid to buy gift cards from stores that could go out of business.
Arundel Mills is planning for big crowds this weekend. The Hanover outlet mall will have late hours, gift-wrapping services and door greeters to meet the crowds.
"The last weekend before Christmas has gotten very, very big," said Wendy Ellis, director of mall marketing and business development at Arundel Mills. "We all lead very busy lives these days, and it's not unusual for us to put off shopping until the end of the season."
Wal-Mart will be selling traditional board games such as Candy Land for as little as $5 and will be giving away $50 gift cards with the purchase of a Sony Blu Ray player.
"Now you're getting into your last-minute shoppers," said ER Anderson, a Wal-Mart spokesman. "We'll be ready for them."
Joyce Flayhan, who was browsing books in Marshalls earlier this week, expected to be at a mall this weekend buying clothes from Aeropostale for her kids. The 45-year-old nurse, who lives in Nottingham, said she's cutting back on elaborate gifts this year.
"It's definitely the thought that counts this year," she said. Charlene Wollard, a 36-year-old nurse from Baltimore, hadn't finished much of her shopping this week, either. Wollard said she's a natural procrastinator, but that the economy is making her think even more about what she buys this year. She's only buying for close family and kids. And she's definitely looking for deals.
"Usually if I want it I just buy it," Wollard said as she looked at perfume in Marshalls. "I haven't been that way at all this year."
