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28/11/2011 -
Consumers took to stores and online shopping sites in droves the weekend after Thanksgiving, helping to drive more than $52 billion in retail sales and stave off fears of another market downturn.The National Retail Federation reported on Monday that a record 226 million Americans shopped online or in stores over the three-day period, up from 212 million last year. Of those holiday shoppers, the average person spent $398.62 over the weekend, up from $365.34 in 2010.
An average $150.53 was spent on the web, reflecting 37.8 percent of total weekend spending. The figures also highlight the importance of credit card processing and payment services to small ecommerce retailers.
"Stuffed to the brim from their holiday meals and eager to shop, more consumers than ever turned out for retailers' Black Friday promotions, a promising sign for the economic recovery," said Matthew Shay, president and CEO of the NRF. "After an historic holiday weekend, retailers know the holiday season is far from over and will continue to look for ways to excite holiday shoppers and build on the momentum we’ve seen thus far."
Shoppers also appeared to go for gift card purchases, as nearly one-quarter or respondents - 23.1 percent - bought gift cards over the weekend.
