Local businesses enjoy a booming Black Friday

Posted: Nov 27, 2010 8:25 PM by Courtney Meznarich (DL)
Updated: Nov 29, 2010 9:18 AM

The weather held out just long enough for bargain hunters to continue their Thanksgiving weekend shopping. It was a bit slower Saturday than Friday, but local vendors say Black Friday sales were the highest they have seen in years.

"It was one of the best Black Friday's we've ever had," said Dennis Johansen, owner of Jim's Campus Camera.

"It was better than last year and we look forward to more business like this," said Dianne Anderson, who owns Plaza Gallery.

"Downtown was crazy, I was dodging strollers and, just so many people," said Jana Plat, a manager at Mr. Michaels.

Resounding joy from retailers in downtown San Luis Obispo on Saturday. With the economy still on shaky ground, many say they didn't know what to expect on what is traditionally the biggest shopping day of the year. However they were pleasantly surprised.

"Black Friday can vary a lot for us but yesterday was extremely robust," said Anderson.

Jim's Campus Camera reported steady business all day long. This year it was able to offer prices as low, if not lower, than electronic superstores.

"The sales in the flyer were very very good values, they were very competitive," he said.

Cameras, leather, cashmere and collectibles. Shop owners say people were not just holiday gift hunting for others.

"It was wild how willing people were to buy stuff for themselves," said Plat, "which is nice because they should treat themselves."

A tradition shoppers look forward to every year, bustling business just in time for the holidays.

"I definitely think it was a tough year on everyone," Plat said. "It was definitely something to boost their spirits."

Most stores in downtown San Luis Obispo did not open until around 9:30 a.m. Which is late by Black Friday standards. However retailers tell KSBY News their customers tend to head to big-box stores first so there was no need to open the doors too early.