NITRO, W.Va. — While some people spent Tuesday huddled inside of the Buffalo Wild Wings in Cross Lanes watching college football, others walked through the aisles of the nearby Walmart, hoping to take advantage of post-Christmas deals on this year’s seasonal products.
The parking lot of the Nitro Marketplace store was almost full during the afternoon as shoppers purchased items listed on their usual grocery list, as well as wrapping paper, greeting cards and other items with holiday flair.
Tonya Vannatter said she bought gift boxes and storage containers that she will use during next year’s holiday season.
“It’s hard to buy Christmas decorations when you have presents you have to buy,” she said. “After Christmas, you can do those splurges.”
For Katy DeBlecourt, shopping for Christmas items after the holiday has been a tradition of hers and her sisters for years. This year, she took her husband along.
“Especially for the wrapping paper and cards, they’re overpriced,” she said. “You get a good deal on it and feel better next year. When you’re wrapping your presents, you don’t have to buy anything.”
Mastercard SpendingPulse reported Tuesday retail holiday sales increased 4.9 percent this year, the largest year-to-year growth since 2011.