Shoppers notice changes at local malls

WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) - With the struggling economy, many local businesses are being forced to make some big changes. Some shopping malls are cutting back on their hours, to make up for slumping retail sales.

The Warwick Mall in Warwick is cutting back one hour a day. It's closing on Monday through Saturday at 9pm now. Because of the bad economy, fewer people are going to the mall, and spending less cash.

"I have noticed a lot of changes, there are not as many people coming here," said shopper Lorraine Christorfaro.

Aram Garabedian, who runs the mall, says the sales numbers are proof in black and white.

"We know retails sales from the holiday are down, and I think most people are being cautious," said Garabedian.

And because of that, the mall is cutting its hours by an hour each day, Monday through Saturday.

On those days the doors are open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., instead of 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.. And on Sunday, hours are from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., instead of 11a.m. to 7 p.m.

Cynthia St. Louis said she has cut back back on her shopping trips because of the troubled economy. Monday, she and her husband stopped in to Warwick Mall only to use a Macy's gift card, instead of spending cash.

"You never know who is going to close, I figure to use the gift cards now while there are slashed prices," said St. Louis.

Garabedian calls the reduction in hours temporary, with the hopes it gives retailers a break on energy and payroll costs until the economy picks back up.

"You are trimming here and there, you don't want to do anything drastic. The last thing you want to do is drastic," added Garabedian.

The Emerald Square Mall in Attleboro, and Garden City Shopping Center in Cranston both close at 9pm as well.