The United States retail sector represents about 8 percent of the country's GDP and despite the fragile economic recovery, festive spending seems to always provide a much needed economic boost. Our Correspondent Daniel Ryntjes has been out on the streets of Washington to find out what's hot this Christmas and whether it's technology or tradition that's dominating the US market.

Is this the snoozing face of Christmas 2012? Surely not?! This sleepy fellow, called Furby was first sold in 1998. And this year's version is for a new generation.

Daniel Butler, vice president of National Retail Federation, said, "Wake up, so, good morning. So here's what's great about this. This is a toy that's been around for 14 years. And they've evolved the technology with him and he has a lot of new features, this is like doing an interview with a puppy, you know. But what's been the big draw for these is not only do they draw from your language and learn from you, they also, based on your interaction with the toy, they develop their own personalities."

It's no secret that technology now dominates retail. Once again Apple's stable of gadgets are at the top of many wish-lists. The iPad Mini makes its debut this year and some of the lower cost versions are being sold out in some stores.

There's also a new version of Nintendo's Wii Games Console system called "U" which is more interactive with people and the technology they have in their homes.

But in the Doodlehopper 4 Kids Toy Store in Falls Church Virginia, their finding that simple toys are also very popular.

Ali Robinson, store manager of Doodlehopper 4 Kids, said, "By far our best seller this season has been the boogie board. It's a writing tablet. All sorts of different uses. It's not going to rub off, it's super lightweight and portable. You can stick it in any bag and you just hit the top button and it erases, it's gone."

The store's other big seller has a simple message.

Toy said: "No"

Robinson said, "It's every parents' best friend.

Toy said: "No"

Robinson said, "Can I have some candy?

Toy said: "No"

Robinson said, "Can I buy this toy?

Toy said: "No"

Reporter: "One of your sales assistants says 'Can I have a raise?'

Toy said: "No"

Robinson said, "Can I have Christmas Eve off?

Toy said: "No"

Robinson said, "N-O...that's my favorite".

The store also sells many traditional - most don't even have batteries.

Robinson said, "Kids are kids, they are the same as they were 20 years ago, regardless of the video games or the computer games."

Reporter: "So despite the focus on high tech gadgets this holiday season, there are still plenty of simple gifts that reveal the child in all of us."

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