WINTER PARK, Fla. — Shoppers everywhere are participating in what experts call “Super Saturday” as they try to get last minute gifts purchased and wrapped during the final weekend before Christmas.
What You Need To Know
The final weekend before Christmas is referred to as Super Saturday, giving shoppers a last-minute chance to pick up gifts
The National Retail Federation estimates nearly 159 million people will participate
Both small businesses and big-name retailers are adding inventory and working with customers as they purchase gifts before the holiday
Julianna Vargas, owner of Gasp, spent her morning greeting customers as they entered her store, located off East Canton Ave in Winter Park.
She says as long as they are happy and having a good experience, that’s all that matters.
“The weekend before Christmas is usually insane, especially just the nature of the products we sell. It’s a lot of stocking stuffers, a lot of very general gifts that you can get for those last people on your list. You can pretty much count on us to have something you’re going to need or at least something small you can add to your gift,” said Vargas.
Vargas opened Gasp four years ago. Since then, she has seen what the holiday season looks like for her and her team — keeping shelves stocked with inventory the weekend before Christmas.
“The holidays are by far our busiest season,” said Vargas. “Our sales are double what they are in any other months, so it’s so important that we do well during these months.”
The National Retail Federation estimates that almost 159 million people plan to shop on the last Saturday before Christmas. They say nearly half of the people they surveyed will shop online and in person for Super Saturday, with clothing and accessories at the top of most people’s lists.
“I have most of my shopping done, there’s a few items, and this is part of our annual tradition I’ve done with my dad since I was a little girl going shopping on Park Ave for last-minute gifts,” said shopper Kristen Matt.
Being a small business owner herself, Vargas says the love and support is appreciated from customers during the holidays.
“We just feel really lucky for all of the support that we’ve received this season,” she said.
While small shop owners wrap up the holiday shopping season, even big-name retailers are feeling the effects.
“For us, it’s really just making sure that we have the merchandise to meet the guest’s needs, and while they’re in here trying to find their items, making sure we’re helping support finding items,” said Target store manager Mark Benitez.
Benitez says stores like Target are extending their hours and offering daily deals to attract shoppers looking for any last-minute gifts.
“Maybe they come across an item that’s out of stock, I can offer them either order pickups or direct same-day delivery to stores, and other options to make sure I can still get that item that they need under their tree,” he said.