Tablets, HD Televisions and Other Practical Electronics Top Consumers Holiday List According To Abt

Glenview, Ill., Nov. 26, 2012 — The holiday shopping season is off to a strong start for the consumer electronics industry thanks to a variety of new tablet and television offerings. Individuals are shelling out in a big way when it comes to the hottest, portable electronics, according to Abt Electronics, one of the nation's largest independent retailers and leading nationwide presence through its e-commerce site Abt.com. The retailer experienced an increased amount of foot-traffic in store and online during Black Friday with consumers looking for the latest tablets, high-definition televisions and the always practical digital cameras.

Consumers have a strong desire to get their hands on the newest technology and their spending habits will likely reflect this trend all season. "In a multitasking world, consumers are looking for the fastest and latest way to connect to the internet while on-the-go," said Abt's co-president Jon Abt. "It's not surprising to see consumers' holiday spending leaning towards technology, like tablets, that makes their lives simpler."

Abt Electronics experienced an increase in five percent increase in visitors to its store this year, which yielded a 22 percent increase in sales from Black Friday 2011. Among the best-selling in-store products were the Samsung 32" HDTVs and Canon PowerShot Digital Cameras.

Abt Electronics also reported a 50 percent increase in the retailerDs e-commerce sales on Black Friday. Their website traffic was up 40 percent and Abt.com customers spent 39 percent more than they did in 2011. The Google Nexus 7 32GB Tablet was one of the most popular electronics purchased online.

Recognized for their customer service, Abt Electronics also saw a 70 percent increase in the volume of online live-chats with trained sales and customer service associates from 2011. Customers can expect the same quality of assistance and expertise an in-store sales associate would provide.

According to the Abt Electronics experts, an increase in sales of portable gadgets and electronics are expected to continue through this Cyber Monday, making for a tech filled holiday gift-giving season.

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