Freebies, coupons aimed at luring shoppers

By Associated Press Published: Nov 26, 2008 at 7:22 PM PST Last Updated: Nov 27, 2008 at 5:21 PM PST
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UNDATED - Just in case massive markdowns aren't enough to convince shoppers to fork over cash for presents on Black Friday, some retailers are hoping to woo shoppers with freebies and coupons.

Friday is the traditional start of the holiday shopping season, and it historically was when the surge of shoppers helped stores break into profitability for the full year.

Here's a sample of what's out there for the dedicated retail junkie.

  • Best Buy is giving away free blue and yellow scarves to the first 50 shoppers waiting in line at 25 designated stores. The scarves include a commemorative tag recognizing the sometimes grueling hours-long wait.
  • Pier 1 Imports will hold a weekend-long sweepstakes for shoppers that begins Friday. The winner can take home a new car and a gift certificate while runners up get $500 store gift certificates.
  • Bed, Bath & Beyond is offering early bird shoppers an extra 20 percent discount on their entire purchase between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. on Friday.
  • Macy's will offer shoppers a $10 discount on any $25 purchase until 1 p.m. Friday.
  • TGI Friday's is offering members of its frequent diners club a free dessert with the purchase of any entree all weekend long.
  • Williams-Sonoma stores are offering shoppers a $10 coupon for every $50 they spend during the weekend. The coupon can be used after Dec. 26.

For more Black Friday deals:

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