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Shoppers Scramble To Find Last Minute Gifts

TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) -- A flurry of activity in stores around the state as shoppers get out to check off their last-minute holiday lists.

Retailers say the mild weather may be playing a part in a boost in sales this year.

Gigi Barnett has more from the mall in Towson.

No sweaters or coats or mittens or hats -- and that's a really good thing. This record-setting weather is driving up sales, retailers say, who are seeing that in the number of people coming to the Towson mall.

This usually weather is causing them to get unique Christmas gifts. Instead of scarves and sweaters that they would normally get, shoppers are going for makeup, jewelery and housewares.

That makes for a good holiday season for retailers.

Sales could be in the double digits so far.

If you're coming out to the mall, just note you will have plenty of company today. Think about the parking and make sure you have a game plan.

"I feel like not just for Lush, but for all retail especially around the holidays, kind of having a game plan. Knowing who you're shopping for, what kinds of things they like," said Lush employee Becky Tauber. "If you come in here and tell us a little bit about them like 'Oh they like these certain things' or 'They like to do these certain things,' we'll have a lot easier of a time helping you pick out the perfect gift for them."

Another factor into the increase of sales was the shopping season was longer.

Shoppers nationwide are expected to spend more than $630 billion for the holidays.

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