By By Arthur McLean
Retailers in Atmore and around the region are looking forward to a strong Christmas season.
For many retailers across the country, Christmas can be a make-or-break selling season turning lackluster years in profitable ones, or falling short and making the next year a long and lean one.
Atmore's retailers say they are looking forward to a strong Christmas season. Some have already seen increases in their business, while others say Christmas sales only really kick in closer to Christmas.
Joe Brown at Country Charms said he is excited for this season. "We're looking forward to a very good season. We've had a strong November and we expect December to be even better," Brown said.
Merchandise for the season has already made its way to store displays. "We shop all year for this season," Brown said.
Jim Justice of Greenlawn Pharmacy said his store is ready with its gift selection, and while many shoppers are hitting the early bird sales, Justice expects a good Christmas for his store.
"I'm looking forward to a good one. If we can get more people to shop at home, Atmore has just as much as any other place," Justice said.
Other stores, like the Fred's chain are expecting brisk Christmas business. From a quarterly financial statement, Michael J. Hayes, CEO said, "As we look ahead to the upcoming holiday season, our stores are well prepared, well stocked, and ready for customers, who we expect will return to a livelier holiday shopping spirit," Hayes continued. "We still are optimistic that sales will bounce back as Christmas approaches."