Retailers roll out big discounts

AUSTIN - Consumer spending dropped 0.6 percent in November. That is the fifth month in a row to see a drop, according to the Commerce Department. If the trend continues, 2008 could be the weakest holiday sales season in 35 years. Retailers are offering good deals to draw people back to the malls.

"I think they did the bigger discounts right away you know, 50 then 60 then 70," said shopper Monica Natishak. "They're at 75 percent a lot of places, 60 to 70 percent which is unusual to see the day after Christmas."

National stores are not the only ones offering great discounts. The 1020 is a local glass art and gift shop. They are also taking at least 25 percent off their merchandise.

"I don't think that Austin really has experienced anything as much as other parts of the country have," said co-owner David Mitchell. "So, there's been lots of people out and our sales have been very good."