Here is what we know about the holiday selling season to date.
- The Thanksgiving Weekend got off to a slow start even when factoring in online sales. The National Retail Federation said sales were down roughly three percent for the time period versus last year.
- Cyber Monday sales were strong, reportedly up between 17.5 and 19 percent, depending on the source.
- Retailers are still advertising and running price promotions to try and get people to spend in stores and online.
The last point is critical as consumers get nearer to completing their holiday purchases. According to the Christmas & Holiday Shopping Forecast released by America's Research Group and Inmar, nearly 31 percent of shoppers claim to have 90 percent or more of their shopping already done. That percentage is higher than at any time in the past decade.
"Those who are waiting for the last minute deals say they're holding out for 70 percent or 60 percent-off sales ... and 50 percent-off just won't cut it!" said Britt Beemer, chairman and CEO of America's Research Group, in a statement.
So what are consumers buying this year?
According to America's Research and Inmar, apparel and consumer electronics sales are strong. The percentage of people buying clothing and accessories grew from 38.8 percent last year to 47 percent so far this holiday. Sales of computers went from eight percent to 10.3 percent and televisions from 7.9 percent to 10.5 percent.