Tulsa-area stores rack up Cyber Monday sales

TULSA - With more people shopping on mobile devices than ever before, Cyber Monday sales numbers are expected to set records. But major retailers aren't the only ones who will benefit.

When Tulsa shop owner Shelley Brander expanded her luxury yarn business, Loops, to the Internet eight years ago, Cyber Monday didn't even exist.

But in the last few years, the retail holiday has taken off, and with it Brander's business.

"Online sales have been growing steadily the first year or two. We've seen a big increase partly because the popularity of Cyber Monday. It's a really big day for us," said Brander.

On Cyber Monday, Brander's employees spend a lot of time packing and shipping items as orders come in.

Because Cyber Monday accounts for 10 percent of her online sales, Brander tries to stay competitive by offering deep discounts on most items.

"So far we've had 50 orders come in and I'm sure it'll continue at that pace all day," she said.

In Sapulpa, Debbie Vinyard experiences the same thing on Cyber Monday. Her clothing business, Happy First, depends on online sales.

"That's where my focus is, my website, because I'm creating a larger online business, so it's real important for me," said Vinyard.

To grab curious clickers on Cyber Monday, Vinyard also provides big incentives.

"If they order $25 or more they get a free scarf," said Vinyard. "If you order $50 or more you get a free hoodie on top of your order too."

Both business owners say offering these discounts is a way to stay competitive with mega-retailers on one of the busiest shopping days of the year.

The Oklahoma Tax Commission says Oklahoma residents who purchase products from online retailers located outside of the state are still responsible for the state's use tax. Residents can report and pay the use tax when they file their state income taxes.