Could the day after Thanksgiving be more bleak than black?

Every year on Black Friday, stores extend their hours and offer "door-buster" specials on merchandise from TVs to apparel.

But amid a continued economic crisis — and after weeks of heavy markdowns and "early Black Friday" deals — consumers might opt to sleep in Friday rather than wait in line to shop.

A disappointing Black Friday would be a major blow to retailers that are counting on holiday sales to pull them out of a months-long sales slump. Analysts are predicting a spate of retail bankruptcy filings in January.

"Black Friday is everything to retailers," said Britt Beemer, chairman of consumer behavior firm America's Research Group. This year, "the entire future's on the line."

Tell us: Do you plan to shop on Black Friday this year?

—Andrea Chang

Comments

[District]

I have to say, I hear a lot about Black Friday being a 'make or break' day for retailers, but I there hasn't been a lot of great deals yet. For such a risky day, retailers really seem to be reluctant to drop the price on goods. $500.00 for a camera or $1000.00 for a 'top end' TV might be good on paper, but who wants to spend $500 - 1000 on luxury goods when they might be out of a job come January? Something still has to give. I see a lot of Chapter 11's in the future...

[O]

We will not be shopping black Friday. The budget is too tight. We got all of our Christmas items in October and I must say, the Christmas tree is going to look a little bleak this year...

I have to agree with District though, I havent seen anything that will make me want to break the bank anyway. The stores are maintaining their prices and refusing to budge. Have they ever heard of the phrase "bend, don't break"?