Online shoppers avoid lines, turn online for Cyber Monday

KSDK-- Forget the Black Friday frenzy. Savvy shoppers will hunt for online bargains on what's referred to as Cyber Monday.

The unofficial holiday refers to the internet shopping blitz that falls on the Monday following Thanksgiving. Many people get back to work and surf the internet for online deals.

Analysts report online sales should be up by about three percent this year.

David Brown, the president of St. Louis-based Datotel, said more people are turning to the internet - for convenience, free shipping, and big discounts.

"Locally, last year we saw a 30% increase in internet traffic over the prior two weeks. And we're anticipating the same this year, too," Brown said.

Brown added that social media websites are a big benefit to both retailers and customers. Stores are offering special Cyber Monday coupons. Meanwhile, shoppers are posting information about where they are finding the best deals.

"If you know one of your friends is shopping and found a good deal somewhere, you know it's going to save you a whole bunch of surfing time, so you can go straight to the deal," Brown said. "There's an increase in social media this year, whether that be Facebook or Twitter."

A retail industry survey found that about 75% of young adults 18-24 with internet access shop at work. It also reported men are more likely to shop from work than women - about 56% compared to 51%.

Click