Festive Shopping: Retailers set for busy in-store rush

• Business News

A post lockdown festive shopping spree is gracing the shops across Australia as the country jumps off the computer and heads in stores, according to a recent survey.

A survey conducted by business platform Xero has revealed more than 72% – or two in three shoppers – are planning a festive shopping trip, with the average spend expected to exceed $500.

According to the survey, unpredictable shipping times and long lockdown periods are key reasons for the spike in shoppers returning to the stores this festive season.

“Xeroʼs survey shows shoppers are eager to return to their local high streets to source their Christmas presents this year. With Aussies opting to begin most of their gift buying towards the end of November, we can expect to see an influx of cheerful consumers venturing out into their communities to fill up their stockings”

Joseph Lyons, Managing Director, Xero Australia & Asia

Australian Retailers Association CEO Paul Zahra told 9News shop owners and businesses are staking much of their year on this current Christmas shopping time.

“Department stores have recorded five consecutive months of negative sales growth, driven by the lockdown of the Australia’s two largest cities, however we are hopeful of a strong finish to the year,” Mr Zahra said.

“Christmas is a time when department stores shine with customers set to return in greater numbers to physical stores.”

According to the survey, the Christmas spirit is in full swing this year with a predicted 9% of shoppers set to spend more in store, with clothing, vouchers and toys the top three gifts of choice under the Christmas tree this year.

Retail prediction for 2022

The “shop local” effort made by Australian consumers in 2021 is predicted to continue into the New Year, with 71% (two-thirds) of the nation remaining committed in supporting local business in 2022.

The survey shows the main drivers for Australians to support small business are the personalised service they receive (28%), followed by a feel good factor (23%), and the meaningful connections they can make with a business owner and their employees (22%).

xero “summer resurgence” survey

With states committed to opening borders, more than three in four Aussies are starting to plan for their next holiday.

A local escape or regional road trip proved the most popular option in 2022, followed by an interstate trip.

The survey showed 43% of those looking to get away said supporting small businesses will be a major part of their holiday plans.

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