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Time to think about holiday shopping?
Time to think about holiday shopping?
MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Store shelves are filled with costumes and candy in advance of Halloween, but already, people are beginning to think about Christmas and holiday shopping. The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is shorter this year, so besides getting your holiday shopping done early, Contact 6 says now is the time to get things ready!
Halloween isn't yet here, but retailers are already eyeing how consumers may spend their dollars during the holidays.
That's because the National Retail Federation says the holiday season can account for 20 to 40 percent of annual sales for businesses.
They've forecasted just over $602 billion in holiday spending -- up 3.9% from last year.
However, there is the calendar to consider.
First, there's the early arrival of Hanukkah, which begins on Thanksgiving Day this year for the first time since 1888.
Plus, a late Thanksgiving on November 28th means a few less days between Black Friday -- the traditional kickoff to the holiday shopping sprint, and Christmas Day.
Meanwhile, the recent uncertainty in Washington could make consumers less willing to spend this year.
This all means consumers could start to see offers from retailers early and often.
Additionally, an annual report from a business consulting company predicts holiday hiring will match the totals of 2012.
They say the bulk of hiring decisions will be made in October, so you've got to get those applications in for part-time holiday jobs.
Contact 6 advises staying flexible regarding the hours you can work, and what types of things you're willing to do, since the company will probably have different needs as they find out what shoppers really want this year.