'Day after' shoppers look for deals

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - If you got a gift card or two in your stocking, retailers are counting on you to help spur after-Christmas sales.

Area malls opened early Saturday morning to accommodate the anticipated after Christmas crowds.

"We have no game plan. Just to brave it. Push through and brave it," laughed Amy Bohms.

Shoppers at Woodland Mall in Kentwood braved the snowy elements as well to either return gifts that didn't quite fit or start spending those gift cards while stores are still offering great deals.

"Lots and lots of gift cards. And of course when you have teenager, you have to go out and spend them all," Bohms said.

Across the East Beltline, Best Buy offered extended store hours as well. The store is fully staffed, prepared for one of their busiest shopping days of the season.

The return counter was surprisingly empty early, but store officials expected things to pick up steadily throughout the evening.

"We see a lot of gift card usage. Gift cards have become a lot more popular over the last few years as far as a Christmas gift. We will see a few returns today," said Dan Richardson from Best Buy.

Nationwide, the retail outlook is less than optimistic. Some analysts are predicting a decline in after Christmas sales for the second straight season.

Early, traffic was light at the 28th Street Target. Most carts were filled with discounted gift bags and wrapping paper to be used for next season.

"It's pretty slow today, I'm surprised. I'm really looking for wrapping paper, deals that I can find," said shopper Jackie Brown.

The dedicated say they'll keep shopping as long as the deals last.

"I've got more to do today. A few returns. This is my second stop actually," Brown said.