12/25/12 - Retailers across the state and in Livingston County are optimistic about the New Year and what has become an extended holiday shopping season. Some shoppers said they were being more frugal this season and spending less than in the past while others indicated they were holding out as much as possible for even bigger post-holiday sales. Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the Michigan Retailers Association Tom Scott tells WHMI an improving economy and more people working have led to increasing consumer confidence. He says the shopping season really extends out until at least the end of the year and into mid-January with a number of gift cards being redeemed over the next few weeks. As for any big ticket items, Scott says it was pretty quiet this year. He says thereâs always the typical electronics including a new I-Phone but no brand new products that appeared out of nowhere and everyone had to have. In the past, the convenient gift card has sometimes been seen as impersonal but Scott says that perception is quickly changing and itâs grown in popularity over the years, helping to drive both traffic and spending for retailers. He says anyone looking to make returns or redeem gift cards should expect crowds and come prepared. Scott also encourages local residents to make a point of using gift cards or gift certificates in the next few months before they expire or get lost in the shuffle. (JM)
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