Black Friday is a big day for "big box" stores that slash prices for holiday sales, and this year they're getting a head start on Thanksgiving Day -- but local small businesses are saying "not so fast."
Even Twin Cities-based Target is joining the list of retailers who will start the sale season on Thursday, but mom-and-pop shops say they will continue to buck that trend.
Most small businesses aren't advertising for door-busting sales, but they are preparing for the holidays in their own ways.
Dan Marshall, at Peapods Natural Toy Store, told FOX 9 News he doesn't see a benefit in bypassing Thanksgiving for a super sale, but he does plan to have all hands on deck on Black Friday to deck the halls.
"We try to make it a lot of fun and make it a party," he explained. "You know, it shouldn't be about waiting out in a parking lot at a big box store on Thanksgiving."
In fact, they've decided against putting any decorations or Christmas music on until Thanksgiving is over -- and customers certainly don't seem to mind.
Down the street at Macawbers Books, co-owner Hans Weyandt says a rush to promote Black Friday sales isn't part of his strategy either.
"It's all about catering to special people and what they want -- not overall big things with specials on certain days of the year," he said, adding that service is what sells in his store.
Many small business owners told FOX 9 News that bucking the trend helps them compete in the crowded retail market, so they aren't in any hurry for the holidays.
