Analysts expected some 58 million people to shop on-line yesterday either from their home or from work.
As is the case with so-called "brick and mortar" outlets, those offering on-line retail sales lured customers to their web sites with some good bargains.

Patrice Duker, the spokeswoman for an organization that represents shopping centers, says to remain competitive, many  "brick and mortar" or independent operations now provide customers with an option of shopping with their computers.

"Since on-line became another venue for people to shop back in the later part of the nineties brick and mortar stores certainly incorporated into their selling strategy, it just becomes another channel for them to reach their consumers."         

The operator of a Sacramento area gift shop says in addition to avoiding the hassle of finding a parking place and navigating a crowded mall, cyber shopping also makes it easier for to surprise family members because gifts can be delivered in plain wrapping.