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N.D. (AP) – Retailers in the Dakotas are expecting a strong holiday shopping season. The day after Thanksgiving is generally considered the kickoff to the season, with stores offering “Black Friday” deals that draw shoppers to stores in droves.

Nationally, holiday sales are forecast to grow 4.1 percent over last year, the highest increase since 2011.

South Dakota Retailers Association Executive Director Shawn Lyons says he expects a similar increase in South Dakota. He says better weather than last year is one reason. An early October blizzard put a damper on many families’ Christmas budgets last year.

North Dakota Retail Association President Mike Rud (rood) says holiday sales in North Dakota might be up 5-6 percent over last year. He cites not only the western oil boom but a strong overall economy.