Shoppers out in force for holiday shopping but sticking closely to lists

Shoppers remain cautious amid steep discounts

NEW YORK — Holiday shoppers are out in full force this weekend but sticking closely to their lists and holding out for just the right deal.

They may get their wish. Analysts say bigger discounts are likely to come in the next week.

Mall parking lots have been full this weekend. The heavy traffic and a lack of early clearance discounts are clear improvements from last year’s dismal season. But cautious spending means retailers are likely to blink on bigger markdowns later this week.

Discounts are widespread but still appear planned. This weekend saw little sign of the rampant clearance discounts of 70 or 80 percent seen last year.

Online, comScore says sales during the week ended Friday strengthened, rising 4 percent to $4.64 billion.