Facebook users hit 'like,' stores jump into action

Posted: Tue 12:03 PM, Dec 18, 2012

NEW YORK (AP) - Facebook isn't just for goofy pictures and silly chatter. Shoppers' actions online help dictate what's in stores this holiday season.

After polling fans on the site, Macy's decided to carry jeans in bright neon hues rather than pastels. And Wal-Mart for the first time decided to let customers vote on which toys they want discounted.

The impact of social media on a company's bottom line remains tough to quantify, but stores are uncovering a valuable use for online chatter: market research.

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