Tis The Season To Last Minute Shop
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DORAL (CBSMiami) – Thousands of last minute shoppers hit stores all across South Florida this Christmas Eve.
For some, time just ran out. Others didn't mind the crowds. Either way, both types of shoppers are benefiting from their procrastination.
"I'm not talking about a small discount. In some cases for hot items you're seeing anywhere from 50 to 30 percent off below Black Friday prices," said Traci Gregorski, an analyst with Market Track.
It turns out waiting until the last second to shop this holiday season has helped consumers stuff their stockings without emptying their wallets.
Retail experts say stores are offering these deep discounts to compete with online shopping.
The National Retail Federation said 40 percent of holiday sales happen about 10 days before Christmas.
Holiday spending is expected to grow 3.7 percent this year – topping $630 billion.
But while many stores let shoppers pass through, an always-open Walmart in Doral actually turned away last minute shoppers, which surprised them.
"Yeah, actually I was not expecting it to be closed," said a last minute chopper. "There was nothing I needed as emergency. So I'll manage for a day."