December 4, 2008

StreetTalk by Carol Rosen

The economy is in crisis. Did you go shopping on Black Friday? Do you plan to buy most gifts in shops or online?
(Asked at Starbucks at Almaden Center)


“Yes, we shopped on Black Friday. There were sales, but we didn’t shop like we have in previous years. We were more reserved this year. I plan to do about half my shopping online and half in stores.”

Danielle Ott, 19
Almaden
Student at UC San Diego


“Yes I did shop last Friday, but I went late and it was somewhat quiet. I didn’t buy a lot, mostly because my shopping list isn’t done so I was just looking. I do most of my shopping in stores because it’s more fun.“

Cheryl, 47
Almaden
Homemaker


“No, I didn’t go because I figure the sales will last all month. I like to online shop, most of the time online shopping is easier and you get better deals.”

Lisa Gonzales, 30
Almaden
Apple


“No, I did not shop because it was a mess and it was crazy. I like to shop in stores because I like to touch and see what I’m buying and I don’t like to pay online. I’m not buying big-ticket items this year. We have everything we want and need. We’re very blessed.”

Jeri, 46
Almaden
Sales and finance


“No, I had other things to do and I didn’t want to fight the crowds. I haven’t gotten to that point yet, but I usually buy Christmas presents in stores. I shop online for myself.”

Tim Woodward, 49
Almaden
Real estate


“Yes, I did and it was not as crowded as I expected. I got up at 5:30 and we arrived at 6 a.m. We left the mall at 11:30 and there were many spaces in the parking lot. I bought some clothes for my daughter but didn’t buy any presents. I plan to do my shopping in stores because I like to be able to see and feel the gifts and to comparison shop.”

Mary Lovelace, 52
Almaden
Computer specialist


“Absolutely not, I was working. Even if I had the day off, I would try to avoid the crowds. I have days off during mid-week and that’s when I go. I will do most of my shopping in stores. I don’t do the Internet. I need to see the item in person and touch it.”

Tony, 29
San Jose
Police officer


“No, I didn’t really shop. I went to the mall, but I didn’t buy anything, I was just looking. The economy is bad and you never know when you might need the cash. I will shop online, it’s much cheaper and you don’t have to deal with the crowds and you don’t have to worry about shipping because it’s free.”

Eric Horio, 36
San Francisco
HR