Dec 30, 2009

Retailers’ pockets jingling after spirited holiday shopping seasonBy Brian BoydSouthCoastToday.com

Despite the struggling economy, SouthCoast retailers enjoyed a gift from consumers this season with relatively strong sales. While retail chains have not yet released their end-of-the-year numbers, local stores saw steady business in the days before and after Christmas. The season could end up improving upon last year’s dismal numbers, according to store owners, mall managers and retail experts.

“Prior to the beginning of the season, I was saying I felt that it was going to be a good season and hopefully we would surpass last year. And all indications now are we have done that,” said Steve Byron, general manager of the Dartmouth Mall.

Just how much sales pick up remains to be seen, Byron said.

The only slow day was the Sunday before Christmas, when a snowstorm pummeled the region. The mall was extremely busy the days before and after the storm hit, though, he said.

Wareham Crossing also offered an upbeat report on the shopping season.

“We don’t have specific end-of the-year numbers, though, based on conversations with individual retailers at Wareham Crossing, they were very pleased with the season and their sales were strong,” said David Fleming, spokesman for W/S Development, the mall’s owner.

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