There were cash registers ringing, cards swiping and receipts printing Monday as shoppers lined up early to take advantage of the post-Christmas savings at stores around LA.
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Nothing says "day after Christmas" like the myriad sale signs at retail stores. Retailers enticed shoppers to stock up with anywhere from 10 to 80 percent off in savings. Many coupon fliers could be found in local newspapers or had been mailed or emailed to consumers.
"I used two separate coupons so I did two separate purchases. I had to put my card away then get my card out again," one shopper told NBC4, saying she definitely saved money today.
"I try to celebrate Christmas a day later because of the sales," Gary Krakoff, a shopper at the Glendale Galleria, said.
Krakoff had his $10 off JC Penneys coupon in hand and a bag with Levi jeans and other clothing.
An American Express Spending & Saving Tracker survey shows nearly 14 percent more people compared to last year climbed out of bed and traveled to stores early this Dec. 26 (57 percent versus 43 percent). Part of the reason is that the day falls on a Monday -- for many, a company holiday.
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Retailers can open early and stay open late. Among those surveyed, 36 percent were taking advantage of sales to buy for themselves, 22 percent were cashing in gift cards and many more returning gifts. The survey says 56 percent of holiday gift givers don't care if a loved one returns their gifts.
Lindsay Parker was on what she called "grandma returns" and was exchanging items for the entire family.
"I am doing a little of everything for my family today. I am the one, the busy bee who gets out and takes care of everything," Parker said.
If you think day after Christmas shopping is simply about coming out and winging it, our experienced shoppers say think again. Getting the good bargains takes strategy.
"I used to work in retail so if I have to use my elbows a little bit doesn't matter," Parker said, adding she hopes the deals are as good as she had seen online on Christmas night. "I thought I saw better deals online last night so we will see."
E-retail spending has been increasing over the past several years as stores focus on online and smart phone shopping for those customers who don't want to drive, park and shop in brick and mortar stores.
There are deals to be had not only on Dec. 26, but for the week leading up to the new year. Sites such as offers.com, dealnews.com, dealio.com have their own after-Christmas sales lists or you can check your favorite retailers' websites.
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