GRAND RAPIDS (WZZZM) -- In just three days, stores across West Michigan will be packed with shoppers hoping to get Black Friday Deals.
But what is an annual tradition for some, is changing. Big-box retailers are fighting harder than ever for the people who never leave their homes on Black Friday.
"I have the kids. I do not go out with all the traffic, said Hudsonville Resident Erich Staman. "I just do all our shopping online."
Grey Matter Marketing Group Specialist John Sawyer said this year it's all about online shopping. Retailers are pushing hard for the digital dollars and handing out deals for staying at home.
"I think there are a lot of people that love to just stay at home in their bathrobe and shop online," he said. "The numbers are showing that a lot of people are shifting to online shopping, away from in-store shopping."
According to Sawyer, the number of people who plan to shop on Black Friday is up 42% from last year despite the economy, and a larger fraction of that will come from the web.
He expects the amount of money spent online this Friday to be 150% higher than the November average.
"I think with all the options online... it's becoming less and less of an event," he said. "My guess is that in five years... it'll probably still be around but it won't be the event that it is now."
But many others love the big event. For them, it's not about the deals, it's about tradtion.
"Up at 3-o'clock with my daughters and we are hitting the stores by four," said Black Friday Enthusiast Maggie Winkel. "My daughters sleep over and plan the route, we are out in the morning and it's fun."
By Steve Patterson
In your voice
