Not only are shoppers hitting the mall less frequently, they’re also hitting the computer less frequently this holiday season and that has e-tailers pulling out all the stops — before the turkey even hits the oven.   Read More

Gift cards used to offer shoppers the perfect holiday punt: You could avoid the mall and still be a hero for giving a great gift. But the crazy discounts that have resulted from the downturn in spending have changed the playing field and gift-card sales are expected to fall for the first time in five years.   Read More

From rings on QVC to toys on Amazon, retailers are increasingly using video to sell their products on the Web. But today's Web videos are going far beyond product demos: Can we interest you in a virtual salesperson or a zombie video?!   Read More

The desire to splurge on children at the holidays tends to make toys somewhat recession-proof. Still, with Mom and Dad watching their budgets more closely, toymakers are rolling out items at a wider range of price points to snag sales.    Read More

When times get tough, women cut back on spending on themselves first. So when it comes to the holiday party — if there is one — this year, more women are rummaging through their closet, borrowing or buying secondhand instead of buying a new party dress.   Read More

With a dearth of dazzle in the holiday toy lineup this year, it looks like Elmo may just groove his way to the top again this year. But he might have to battle a robot or triceratops to win that coveted spot under the tree. Let the games begin!   Read More

Take off that Sarah Palin mask and get your shop on because retailers are desperate this year and they've rolled out some hefty sales before the first little pirate or princess even hits the doorbell.   Read More

Gas prices may have come down but with the economy in a tailspin and consumer confidence at its lowest since 1967, small shop owners are taking preventive measures in order to survive what is expected to be the worst holiday season in years.   Read More

Wal-Mart is already bracing for a tough holiday season — and retail climate overall — slowing the pace of new store openings and remodeling existing stores. And, in a telling sign of the season: The discount chain is now attracting more higher-income shoppers.   Read More

While retailers batter down the hatches — some of them for good — in preparation for a difficult holiday season, Coach has a different strategy: Variety.   Read More