Shoppers’ And Retailers’ Changing Attitudes Toward Black Friday

New research suggests that Black Friday’s popularity among shoppers may have peaked. We look at people’s changing attitudes toward holiday shopping, how retailers are responding and what the future holds for the Christmas shopping season.

According to the consulting company PwC, just 35 percent of those who plan to shop during Thanksgiving week say they will do so on Black Friday, down from 59 percent in 2015. The downturn comes as retailers offer their post-Thanksgiving sales earlier, with many holding doorbuster sales on Thanksgiving Day. In fact, Menomonee Falls-based Kohl’s is starting its online Black Friday deals on Monday, November 20.

As for Thanksgiving Day shopping, more well-known retailers than ever – including Home Depot, Staples and Sam’s Club – will be closing their physical stores for most if not all of turkey day, according to NBC’s TODAY Show. Some are also closing on Black Friday as well. In addition, the Mall of America will be closed on Thanksgiving and offering its 1,200 workers holiday pay on Black Friday.

Do you plan to shop on Thanksgiving Day, Black Friday or stay home? Will you spend money at a local business on Small Business Saturday? Will you be working in retail on any of those days? How do you feel about whether stores should be open or closed on Thanksgiving? Weigh in at 1-800-642-1234 or email ideas@wpr.org. You can also tweet us @wprmornings or post on the Ideas Network Facebook page.