Play It Safe This Black Friday: Shop Online

Give thanks for the fact that you don't have to fight the crowds at the stores today. Join millions of holiday retail shoppers online today!

I don't know about you, but I'd much rather stay home than fight the crowds at the stores today. The thought of going to the Mall on "Black Friday" actually scares the jolly out of me. It's horrifying how otherwise mild-mannered people, who have just spend a day giving thanks, can so easily turn into fierce competitors when there is a store-wide sale at JC Penny's on the day after Thanksgiving!
So, I'll be joining millions of holiday retail shoppers online today. Believe me, it's much safer this way...
Yes, millions of shoppers will be purchasing products online today. WSL Strategic Retail reports that 48% of consumers report shopping online more, while 37% say they are shopping in stores less.
As the number of shoppers who buy online continues to grow, so does the amount of products purchased online.
Electronics purchased online increased from 41% in 2003 to 52% in 2005
Office and stationery supplies purchased online increased from 31% in 2003 to 44% in 2005
Home furnishings purchased online increased from 26% in 2003 to 36% in 2005
Greeting cards purchased online increased from 8% in 2003 to 18% in 2005
Jewelry & watches purchased online increased from 22% in 2003 to 31% in 2005
Online buyers rate the following as the top 3 reasons to shop online.
1.       large selection = 64%
2.       saving time = 60%
3.       checking for sales = 51%
So, play it safe this Black Friday -- give thanks for the fact that you don't have to fight the crowds at the stores -- shop online.
--Source: WSL Marketing Inc., 2005