The First Thanksgiving, painting by Jean Louis Gerome Ferris (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It might be more than just a matter of consumer gluttony.

“There are reasons why we are the last superpower left,” said Scott Testa, a marketing consultant and former marketing professor from the Philadelphia area. “It’s because we are a democracy and because of our economic strength. It’s part of our DNA as Americans. Your typical American loves to shop.”

Power of conformity

“Retail Creep” is not a new phenomenon.

Blue laws prevented stores from opening Sundays for religious reasons. Most of the laws have been repealed, yet the sale of alcohol is still prohibited on Sundays in many places.

A fundamental cultural shift may facilitate the creeping consumerism.

“There are no barriers,” Testa said. “I am absolutely convinced you will see retailers in the future that simply require less people, less cashiers. Technology will do a couple of things; e-commerce will continue to grow, and physical retailers through technology will be able to operate with less people today. I would not be shocked if you see the Wal-Marts and Targets of the world open all day Thanksgiving and Christmas.”

http://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20121121/NEWS/211210310/-1/NEWS01

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