Retail Sales Are Way Up

DENVER (CBS4) - Retailers hope shoppers keep spending in the final week before Christmas. The National Retail Federation says overall sales are way up. Even local businesses in Denver are seeing a boost in the economy.

The National Retail Federation forecasts Americans will spend $450 billion, making it the strongest holiday season since 2006.

The big chain stores are seeing an increase in sales but smaller local businesses are seeing their fair share of traffic as well.

"We like to support local businesses and we just bought a bunch of locally made stuff, so I'd like to support the Denver economy," shopper Aaron Henry said.

At the Fancy Tiger on South Broadway the holiday season brings about 200 people a day through the doors and sales are significantly up from last year.

"I think there's just a cognizance about supporting the community," Fancy Tiger owner Matthew Brown said.

A recent national survey shows sales at clothing stores have increased 2.7 percent.

"Our season really starts in October when it gets cold. Since then we stayed on par with last year," said Ken Cook, Caboose Hobbies Assistant Manager.

Sporting goods and hobby stores sales increased 2.3 percent seasonally. Caboose Hobbies on South Broadway has been around for 71 years and expects to see a rise in sales.

"We're what you call a storefront. You can buy from the Internet but you get no support," Cook said.

With all the money being exchanged this year customers are showing they're not afraid to shop and not afraid to support their community.