Holiday sales are expected to hit record highs across the nation.
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — With Christmas just days away, shoppers made their way to La Palmera Mall to finish checking items off their holiday lists.
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From photos with Santa to meals in the food court, the mall stayed busy as customers searched for last-minute gifts. Some shoppers said crowds were lighter than expected.
“It is not as busy as I expected,” one shopper said, adding that many people may have already completed their shopping.
Others admitted procrastination played a role.
“Everybody probably winding down — everybody mostly got their shopping done. I’m one of the last-minute guys,” another shopper said.
Several shoppers said work schedules left little time to shop earlier in the season.
“I was working all the way up until two days ago. This was the first time I’m really able to get out and get some final things,” one shopper said, noting most purchases had already been made online.
According to the National Retail Federation, holiday sales are expected to surpass $1 trillion for the first time this year. The group reports consumers plan to spend an average of $890 per person on gifts, food and decorations.
Mall officials said security has been increased during the holiday rush, with additional patrols and a visible presence throughout the property as foot traffic increases.
Some shoppers said despite the crowds, last-minute shopping can still be efficient with a plan.
“There’s not really a method — just know where you’re going, get through the crowds and get out with enough time,” one shopper said.
La Palmera Mall is open until 10 p.m., closes at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve, and will be closed on Christmas Day.