21 Million More Shoppers Hit Stores & Websites on Black Friday Weekend This Year

Thanksgiving Day promotions win over millions of holiday shoppers, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). Here are the numbers direct from NRF:

Washington, November 25, 2012 - The New England Patriots and the Washington Redskins weren't the only winners this Thanksgiving Day as more than 35 million Americans visited retailers' stores and websites Thursday - up from 29 million last year - scoring deals on everything from hot electronic items to cashmere sweaters and toys. According to a National Retail Federation survey conducted by BIGinsight over the weekend, traffic and spending grew over the entire weekend. More people than ever before also shopped online and in stores on Black Friday, as 89 million shoppers braved the crowds, up from 86 million last year.

According to the survey, a record 247 million shoppers visited stores and websites over Black Friday weekend, up from 226 million last year. Making sure to take advantage of retailers' promotions to the full extent, the average holiday shopper spent $423 this weekend, up from $398 last year. Total spending reached an estimated $59.1 billion.

"From green beans to great deals, millions of Americans found time this Thanksgiving to make the most of retailers' promotions and enjoy a special family holiday," said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay. "To keep their customers excited about holiday shopping, retailers will continue to offer attractive promotions through December, and provide strong consumer value with low prices, enhanced mobile and online offerings, and unique product assortment."

Click here to read the full NRF analysis.

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