Several Major Retailers Open On Thanksgiving To Get Jump On Black Friday
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — More than two dozen major retailers were open early on Thanksgiving so consumers could get a jump on Black Friday deals.
Kmart started the shopping season early at 6 a.m. The chain has been open on the holiday for the past 23 years.
J.C. Penny and Toys "R" Us opened their doors at 5 p.m., while Sears, Macy's, Target were planning to welcome shoppers about an hour later.
Retailers have drawn criticism for opening on Thanksgiving because of the disruption it causes in the lives of their employees and for dividing families on a holiday known for bringing them together.
KCAL9's Brittney Hopper reported Thursday evening that shoppers seemed to only have bargains on the brain.
She was outside a Toys "R" Us in Burbank when the doors opened.
"I feel like everything is going to be crowded tomorrow," said shopper Fredrick Curry.
Along with thousands of others, Curry waited in long lines as many retail stores opened early.
"It's cheaper. Actually, for my son for Christmas. It's his first Christmas. He's 10 months.. Trying to make the best for him," Curry said.
Hundreds packed the aisles at the famous toy store but Hopper reported not everyone inside was shopping for their children.
"You're at a kids store but you're here for yourself," said one shopper.
Next door to the toy store, Hopper also spoke to consumers at the Best Buy where Hopper said the line wrapped around the store.
Arotin Arakelian has been camped out since last Friday. He spent his Thanksgiving holiday in a line..
"It brings people together and we make friends, it's fun. I like it. I enjoy it," Arakelian said.
To avoid people getting hurt, Hopper reported that many stores including the Toys "R" Us, only allowed 50 people in at a time and then a few minutes later, another 50.
