Last-minute holiday shoppers lured by deals, extended hours

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Last-minute holiday shoppers are hitting the stores as retailers go to extremes an effort to lure shoppers right up until Christmas Eve.

"The people that are very important to me are counting on me to get them presents, and I am determined to fight this mess down here and get some shopping done," said Tasha Russell, a last-minute shopper.

Super Saturday falls on this weekend and is expected to be the biggest shopping day by volume and sales.

The reason why? Department stores like Macy's are staying open around the clock and offering shoppers the option of ordering gifts for same-day pickup as late on Dec. 24.

"Whether it's s door buster in the morning until one in the afternoon or the extra 40 percent offs and 20 percent offs, this is really a good time to get your shopping done," said Andrea Schwartz of Macy's.

Beginning Friday, Kohl's will keep its doors open for more than 100 hours straight until Christmas Eve night.

"We're here, we have a little time, we thought we'd squeeze in a few things and pick up some extra things on good deals," said Greg Krebes, a shopper.

The strategy is an effort by retailers to capture the last of holiday shopping budgets, especially after a lackluster Black Friday and near-constant deals online.

Retail analysts say this last week is going to be critical for a lot of stores.

"This is the last chance, Super Saturday is now becoming as big as Black Friday," said Tom Compernolle, a Deloitte principal retail consultant.

And while some enjoy the quest for bargains, it's not for everyone.

The Murray family has decided to let this holiday be more than just about stuff.

"We very blessed to have gifts from friends and family, so we figured for our kids, we're just focusing on making Christmas a fun time," said Sara Murray.