Mall is Quiet

[Kerim]

Now I certainly don't believe in extrapolating too much from anecdote, but I work right next to a pretty big mall, and I've got to say it has been pretty durned quiet this shopping season. Sure, it is busier than in June, say, but relative to years past, it is really quiet. The food court lady that I talk with regularly says it has been a dismal holiday season this year, and is worried because they haven't yet made the excess that they usually count on to get them through the rest of the winter.

Anyway, just for what it is worth. Think it is a localized phenomenon? Or maybe everyone is just shopping online now. What are others observing this season?