How local small businesses fared this Black Friday

Many shoppers on Black Friday avoided the malls and stayed home to shop online. According to NPR, shoppers spent a record $10.8 billion online Friday, up 10% from last year.

On the other hand, in-store traffic was down 8.2%. Shoppers were more willing to line up at stores with deep discounts, at least 40%.

In the Coachella Valley, local businesses say it was a mixed bag.

David Powell, executive director of the Desert Business Association, says despite online shopping, the Coachella Valley's tourist appeal helps local business, especially during the holiday season.

“That stimulates people to come down, get out of the house, enjoy something different that they wouldn’t, and then stay down, enjoy, shop, enjoy a nice restaurant.” 

David Powell, Desert Business Association executive director

Cities like Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage are providing community gift cards to stimulate the local economy.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.