CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) - Black Friday shopping kicked off with fewer crowds than previous years as consumers increasingly turn to online deals, according to retail experts and local observations.

The National Retail Federation forecasts 187 million people will shop at brick-and-mortar stores or online between Black Friday and Cyber Monday. The projection falls short of the near-record numbers posted in 2024.

Experts cite reduced disposable income due to high energy costs and inflation as factors contributing to the slower shopping pace. Financial advisors recommend following the one-percent rule, which suggests shoppers should not spend more than one percent of their yearly income during the holiday season.

Shoppers adapt to crowded conditions

At Charlotte Premium Outlets, early shoppe

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