Down in the basement of Big Fun, a store that sells vintage toys and novelty gags, owner Steve Presser smiles. The floor above his basement office is creaking.
“It makes me VERY happy. That means there’s people out and about shopping. They’re not shopping online, they’re shopping and supporting local independent businesses.”
A recent American Express survey found that 36 percent of small business owners expect holiday sales to be better compared to 2013.
Presser says Big Fun’s December sales are strong…and he’s not sure why.
“I think maybe it’s this…hopefully a move towards supporting your local, independent businesses. Your brick and mortar during the holiday season. And I think that’s important. We’re the fabric of your neighborhood.”
Another factor that helps stories like Presser’s is this year’s trending toy craze. It’s been mostly retro flashbacks, from the 1950s to the 80s, especially. Think Gumby and Pokey, Stretch Armstrong, and Star Wars.