Stores offering more than just deals for shoppers

Associated Press

Just in case massive markdowns aren’t enough to persuade shoppers to fork over cash for presents on Black Friday, some retailers are hoping to woo shoppers with freebies and coupons.

Today 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.

UPier 1 Imports will hold a weekend-long sweepstakes for shoppers that begins today. The winner can take home a new car and a gift certificate, while runners-up get $500 store gift certificates.

UBed, Bath & Beyond is offering early bird shoppers an extra 20 percent discount on their entire purchase between 6 and 10 a.m. today.

UMacy’s will offer shoppers a $10 discount on any $25 purchase until 1 p.m. today.

UWilliams-Sonoma stores are offering shoppers a $10 coupon for every $50 they spend during the weekend. The coupon can be used after Dec. 26.