Survey Shows Shoppers Looking For Deals Online

And ‘Special’ Gifts In Local Shops

By Eliza Hallabeck

The 37 respondents to The Newtown Bee’s recent survey on holiday shopping overwhelmingly reported that they found their best holiday shopping deals can be found online. But they also noted that local shops were a great place to find those hard-to-come-by “special” gifts for the holidays. The unscientific survey was conducted online between December 1 and 13.

Roughly 70 percent of the responders said websites rather than local shops and businesses, shopping malls or plazas, outlet stores, and craft fairs, offer the best deals. Shopping malls or plazas came in second in the multiple choice question, with more than 13 percent of responders choosing that option.

When asked where the best Newtown deals for the holidays are, some responders were skeptical that deals could be found in town, while others named local shops and businesses.

“Don’t see too many ‘deals’ in town in the way of sales and coupons. I’m all about deals and getting an incentive. Online shopping offers free shipping, often no sales tax and dollars off,” one commenter said.

Another responder said they keep their eyes open for deals and they like to give gift cards to restaurants.

“Shopping in Newtown isn’t about finding the best deals,” another commenter said, “but sometimes that’s a choice worth making. Newtown has some great little shops that have the little something special. The Toy Tree and Wishing Well have had some great deals, and it feels good to support a local business. I’ve also gotten gift cards to some great new places, like Stone River Grille and Figs (and Pub 25 for the younger crowd!). I’d rather support them than the big chain restaurants. Life’s a Peach, Down on Main Street, and Black Swan all had some great gift ideas as well!”

Local stores like Down on Main Street, Black Swan, Wishing Well, Life’s a Peach, and Everything Newtown were named in the survey as good places to find something special for the holidays. A number of commenters also named TJ Maxx on South Main Street as a good place to shop for deals. Responders also listed Big Y and Caraluzzi’s on the survey.

A new survey asking residents to name the most memorable event from 2011 is available at www.newtownbee.com. The new survey will be available until Monday, December 26.