Lacey Small Businesses Challenged by Big Box Stores On Black Friday

While big box stores will be having extended hours for the rush on Black Friday, some small businesses in Lacey will be closed while others are not anticipating a busy day.

“People are going to go to the big stores and get sales,” said Nic Liverani of Nic Nac’s New and Old, which will be closed on Friday. “I’m going to enjoy myself.”

Although business has fluctuated, Liverani is hoping business will pick up with the holidays approaching. Nic Nac’s sells unique gift items that cannot be found in big box stores, he said.

Other stores like Astro-Appliance and Jerry’s Tuxedo will also be closed.

“Why would any small business stay open to compete with a big box store,” an employee of Astro-Appliance said.

All Aboard Trains, which has been open for almost two weeks, will be opened on Friday but is not anticipating an extra busy day and will not be offering deals.

Galaxy TV LLC will also be opened on Black Friday and will be offering deals on 32-inch televisions as well as special promotions such as free delivery and installation, Sal Patti said.

The store offers competitive prices to Walmart and Best Buy, Patti said. Unlike big box stores, he offers service and installation.

“We’re all around stores. The profit margins aren’t there,” Patti said. “We’re keeping ourselves above water.”

The Jewelry and Gift Boutique on Lacey Road is expecting a rush on Friday and many items will be marked down.

“This store is different. It’s definitely a specialty shop. It’s very affordable,” Linda Chicalese said.

Chicalese said the store will have extended hours if necessary but does not expect the big box stores to pose a challenge. The shop is stocked for the holidays and will be selling many gifts for under $20.

Big box stores do not pose a challenge for the Backyard Store either, which will be open this Friday.

“We offer things those stores don’t have this time of year,” Lisa Knoeller said.

Many items such as patio furniture and grills have been marked down for the holidays, she said.