ShopKo: Home, electronics looking good for holiday

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 11/14/2003 12:00:00 AM

Green Bay, WI — ShopKo said it sees two primary trends driving holiday shopping this year: the demand for new electronics and consumers' focus on their living spaces.

"We are definitely seeing a trend in staying closer to home — people enjoying the comforts of home and being connected to one another," said Scott Bresnehan, director of trend. "It wasn't long ago that the home was viewed as a retreat. Today, home is a warm, inviting, comfortable place for gathering and entertaining friends and loved ones, often filled with multiple activities."

That trend is driving demand for holiday-related tabletop items such as candles, candle holders, vases, picture frames, wall décor, decorative place settings and serving pieces, he said. Other home items "resonating" with ShopKo customers includes pillows and throws in brushed fleece, textured faux fur, chenille and velvet.