Consumers Flock on Cyber Monday

More people appear to be willing to shop this year as $13.7 billion has already been spent on holiday shopping this year. That is a 16 percent increase from last year.The stores are already saying this past weekend was the biggest shopping weekend on record. Clothing was the number one top seller, after that technology was the big hit.Retailers told ABC 17 News that the sales were not just indoors, they are stretching to online as well. Retailers in Mid-Missouri said Black Friday was a much bigger shopping day this year, however, they said online shopping is a growing trend. Online experts told ABC 17 News as shopping on the web continues to grow, it’s important to weigh your options.”It may be something where you need six of something, but it offers 12 at a higher price, well what are you going to do with the other six?” said Andrew Zumwalt who is a finance professor at the University of Missouri.Experts warn to be on the lookout when looking for a great deal. They suggest separating the fluff deals from the good deals and try to figure out other people’s opinions.Online stores offer customer comment sections, but skeptics say use caution. Big box stores hire people to also write comments and as technology grows, so does the shopping holiday itself. As Cyber Monday continues to grow more people are using cell phones to get the deal of the day. However experts warn to make sure people’s Wi-Fi connection is secure before making a purchase. One Verizon Wireless manager warns hackers can get into your phone or computer to steal your credit card information. Experts suggest checking to see if the website is legit and if it uses a secure connection. Whether you shop in the comfort of your own home or at the store, many businesses are trying to just get ahead. “I think the whole weekend is going to be a big deal, not just Black Friday. And as you saw, we had people opening up on Thursday too, so they’re trying to extend their hours to try and gain that much more traffic,” said Verizon Wireless manager Brandon Jones.ABC 17 News spoke with one big box retailer today who told us black Friday sales where much higher then Monday’s cyber sales.Online shopping deals are offered on most websites until midnight, therefore complete Cyber Monday numbers won’t be available until Tuesday.