Mall Of America And Major Nationwide Store Closures

TheBlackFriday.com website lists all of the retailers not open on Thanksgiving. Retailers on this list include Nordstrom Rack (Nordstrom, Inc. (NYSE: JWN)), PetCo, Publix Super Markets Inc. (OTC: PUSH), Pier 1 Imports Inc (NYSE: PIR), Patagonia, Ikea and the Home Goods, Marshalls and the T.J. Maxx trifecta (TJX Companies Inc (NYSE: TJX)).

Perhaps one of the most significant pieces of related news is Mall of America's announcement made by management this past fall that it would not mandate retailers remain open on Thanksgiving Day.

USA Today recently highlighted this announcement stating, "The 520 stores in the Mall of America will have the option to remain open, though many will likely decide to close their doors, according to the Minneapolis Star Tribune. The mall will officially re-open at 5 a.m. the day after Thanksgiving to kick off its Black Friday festivities."

According to a recent article in the Star Tribune, only three Mall of America stores, Crayola Experience, Sears Holdings Corp (NASDAQ: SHLD) and Macy's Inc (NYSE: M), chose to remain open on Thanksgiving. The paper reported that even non-retail businesses connected to the mall, such as the movie theaters and the aquarium, would close for the Thanksgiving holiday. However, the mall still hosted its annual Walk to End Hunger Thursday.

How Significant Are The Closures, Profit-Wise?

On a related note, it appears as though fewer consumers spend their Thanksgiving shopping pre-Black Friday sales. According to Nashville-based ABC affiliate WKRN, more than half of American's planned to skip these sales. The station reported that in a survey administered by Offers.com, 53 percent of American's said that they do not plan to take advantage of sales on Thanksgiving. This percentage is up by 8 percent compared to last year.

It seems as though the good old times of mingling with family and friends on Thanksgiving are making a comeback. If what was projected proves true, those planning to shop pre-Back Friday sales had comparatively less competition Thursday.

Whether you plan on taking advantage of the week's deals or opt for a more financially conservative take this year, remember: Invest in yourself by investing in your financial future. Shop smart, talk to your financial advisor and stay savvy.