Black Friday bonanza: Shoppers get in on deals around Tupelo

TUPELO, Miss. (WCBI) – It is called the most important day of the year for retailers, and Black Friday brought shoppers out early, looking for those deals.

Every Black Friday, Russell Thomas, Sandra Gibson, and her daughter Samantha meet up for a shopping trip to Tupelo.

The first stop is Reed’s.

“I live here. They come up from Mantee and they call me and we shop here at Reed’s. They’ve done their shopping but I haven’t even started yet,” said Thomas.

The trio joined many shoppers looking to make a dent in their Christmas lists.

“Today I did a lot. Shopped for a bunch of the girls in our family, at MINT, and then I covered the kids upstairs at Reed’s. Got toys for the kids, and think I finished the kids, finished my sisters,” said Mary Morgan Burks.

Reed’s owner Jack Reed, Jr. said Black Friday is a major event for his store and his customers.

“We have some Black Friday sales. People like it. It’s sort of like a women’s version of going duck hunting. They are out to find some great deals all over the store,” said Reed, Jr.

At the Mall at Barnes Crossing, the parking lot was full. While inside, Black Friday sales were keeping retailers busy.

“We have had regular Black Friday sales and throughout the past five to seven years. Retailers have taken those sales and maybe they were 30% off, but now they’re 70% off. There’s more incentive before the holidays than ever before,” said Jeff Snyder, Mall Manager.

The high traffic is a good sign for all businesses in the mall.

“It is busy, busier than we thought it would be. I see a lot of people from all over. It’s really busy,” said Deepa Bhattari, Deeva Brows and Lashes.

At M&K Menswear, Black Friday sales will continue throughout the week.

“‘Tis the season. Holidays coming up, and families taking pictures. If you want to look good, come see us and we can help you look your best for whatever the occasion may be,” said Dieynaba Diong, M&K Men’s Fashions.

Shoppers and merchants also stressed the importance of shopping locally whenever you can.

Many stores will have extended hours until Christmas.

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