Dec 21, 2008 9:20 pm US/Eastern
Holiday Shoppers Rush To Malls, Hunt For Bargains
PITTSBURGH, Pa. (CBS) ―
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Holiday shoppers race around for sale items after braving the cold temperatures outside of Target as they start the traditional holiday shopping season on Nov. 28, 2008 in Pleasant Prairie, Wis.
Darren Hauck/Getty Images
Christmas is four days away, Hanukkah starts Sunday night and that means last-minute shoppers are running out of time to find the perfect gift.
The last weekend before Christmas is considered a make or break time for retailers. Amed with cash, credit cards and Christmas lists, shoppers were out in numbers at the local malls Sunday looking for bargains.
Many consumers got an early start at the Mall of Robinson in Pittsburgh, including local resident Jason Liggett, who was just getting started on a long gift list.
Money is key issue for most people. With the recent economic struggles, some say they won't be doing as much free spending as in previous years.
"There's still going to be presents under the tree, but a lot of practical things, things we wear," shopper Dan Bonk told CBS station KDKA-TV. "There's going to be more socks and things like that, but probably the big ticket items we've cut back on."
"We are spending a little bit less," said another shopper Janelle Hayes. "My family's doing a Secret Santa so were buying for individuals instead of the whole entire group which is good because money is a little tight for everybody right now."
Even some stores selling popular Steelers merchandise are feeling the pinch. But just like football, the holiday shopping season is not over yet.
"It doesn't seem like they're buying as much as they did last year," said sales clerk, Lori Gregory, "but I think because of the excitement about the Steelers season, and the Penguins are doing well, people are still buying because there are a lot of sports fans out there."
Meanwhile, a newly expanded store at the Mall at Robinson figured out a way to attract hundreds of holiday shoppers: Forever21 advertised free gift cards for the first 200 customers.
"I know that the economy is bad right now, but that's the best part about Forever21 … the clothes are a great bargain for the price, it's very fashion-forward and you come in here you're going to get a good deal," said store manager, Sohmer Solosky.
And another shopper, Patty Youschak, said she came to the mall with coupons because she is watching her dollars.
"[I'm] not buying on a whim, more practical items, looking for deals, and there's a lot out there," said Youschak.
Even though shoppers are watching their spending, there is one person who will be extremely busy on Christmas Eve.
"From my standpoint, as we always say Santa will see what Santa can do. There's no promises, it all depends on what's going to be able to fit into the sleigh," said the jolly, old elf himself.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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