Area retailers were met by throngs of eager shoppers on Black Friday.
Many stores and shopping locales opened especially early this year, some as early as Thanksgiving night. The earlier hours appeared to ease the rush of shoppers that have, in some instances, led to injuries in the past. And the bargains were the driving force in bringing out the dedicated, early shoppers.
The Eastern Hills Mall opened at midnight for Black Friday for the first time in its history. Marketing Manager Karen Garrow claims that the move was a success.
The National Retail Federation is reporting that holiday sales are expected to rise by nearly three percent this year, achieving an estimated $465 billion overall.
