Economic observation from the Mall of America: "The place is packed but no one's carrying any bags!"

[NickB79]

That was what my wife noticed when we were wandering around this past weekend, and the realization hit me like a brick. After she said that, it was a bit scary to keep seeing all the people but none of the purchasing. The patrons didn't have any bags; the stores were full, but the check-outs were empty, there were numerous employees standing around as everyone was "Just looking, thanks!".

[Greyhound]

1. Here's a kick.

We're seeing the same thing here few bags & the traffic is even lighter, though it's still bad.

[fascisthunter]

2. sales this last saturday were thin....

[Donnachaidh]

3. kids still hang at the malls, even though everyone is broke

But we'll get the heavily tweaked and spun figures stating that we're still recovering...

[kestrel91316]

4. I would venture a guess that a lot of them turned the heat down or off at home

and headed to the mall for free warmth.

[MidwestRick]

6. I work for a mall developer

I over see 14 malls around the country.

To date, every one of these malls has reported increased revenue this year from our tenants. From my own personal observation, I have been to a few malls in the Chicagoland area and have noticed a lot of bag carrying customers.

[el_bryanto]

5. That's a bad sign - I kind of hate the malls

So can't verify it here, but it's kind of spooky.

Bryant