Retailers report higher Black Friday sales; Retail watchers await definitive ShopperTrak data

Early indicators of Black Friday sales promising

CHICAGO — Shoppers returned to malls Saturday as observers waited for early data showing just how much consumers spent during their Black Friday shopping sprees.

Data from the research firm ShopperTrak, generally seen as the most definitive on the topic, is expected later Saturday.

In the meantime, Friday’s early reports showed bigger crowds at stores with shoppers buying more than last year. J.C. Penney on Saturday said business was “strong” nationwide. And QVC, which markets products on television and online, said Black Friday sales totaled $32 million, up almost 60 percent from last year.

Black Friday is seen as an important barometer of consumers’ willingness to spend during the holidays.