Shoppers Show Up, Will They Return?

Shoppers came out in droves on Black Friday for holiday bargains. However, retail-industry insiders questioned whether the turnout would extend through the rest of the holiday season. Spending was reported to be selective, with "practical" products like GPS devices for under $100 and laptop computers for under $400 among the most popular. Flat-screen T.V.'s and the Zhu Zhu Pet hamster toy were also big sellers. The day began with customers lined up, some of them having waited all night. In fact, many Wal-Marts stayed open through the night. Best Buy and Target opened at 5 a.m., and Toys 'R' Us opened at midnight.