Windsor bargain hunters take on Boxing Day madness

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With the season of giving behind us, many saw Boxing Day as the perfect chance to indulge.

Waves of bargain hunters fought long lines and busy parking lots on Thursday as they flocked to big box stores and Devonshire Mall, scrambling to find the best post-Christmas deals.

Freeds on Ottawa Street was among several local retailers that drew in eager crowds with its half-off storewide sales.

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“Boxing Day is always the busiest day of our year,” said Freeds co-owner Dan Orman.

“It’s the day after Christmas. We’re known for having sales throughout the store. It’s that one day of the year when everything is half off.”

The local retailer, which specializes in tailored suits, has operated in Windsor for 95 years.

Sweetening the deal for early birds, the first 100 Freeds customers were rewarded with a $25 coupon.

By the time employees opened the doors at 9 a.m., more than 50 people were already lined up outside. A constant stream of shoppers were seen heading into the store just before noon.

“It’s been steady ever since,” said Orman.

He said there was lots of interest in suits, sweaters, and jackets.

While online shopping continues to be a widespread trend, Orman said there is still a draw for people to shop in-store and take advantage of Boxing Day sales — especially when clothing needs to be tailored.

“When it comes to clothing, buying things that need to be tailored online is still a touchy feely part of our business, and people still like to come in and try things on,” said Orman.

He added that in-person shopping eliminates the hassle of returning online purchases and the uncertainty of guessing sizes.

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