With only 12 shopping days to go until Christmas, retailers are encouraging Aussies to plan their final shopping items this week to avoid last-minute stress and disappointment.
Australia's largest retail peak body, the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) said whilst the majority of Christmas shopping is already completed, plenty of great shopping opportunities remain.
"This will be the biggest Christmas on record for Australia, with Aussies predicted to spend $66 billion in the Christmas trading period – up 6.4% on last year's spending according to our ARA holiday sales predictions with Roy Morgan," said Mr Zahra. "These are great results, however, it's important to acknowledge that price increases are a factor in these numbers and are also driving Australians to spend to get in ahead of inflation.
"Australians have read the memo from Australia Post and others and most are shopping earlier than ever this year. Salesforce research tells us 84% of sales will take place prior to the week of Christmas this year - which is a great to know that the majority of Australians have avoided the last-minute rush this year.
Mr Zahra said normal parcel delivery for Australia Post cut offs have already kicked in sending more people in-store for last minute purchases.
"Aussies are truly planning to eat, drink and be merry this year and many of the last-minute purchases typically include fresh food. Aussies love seafood, and we are predicting another bumper year for oysters and lobster as well as northern hemisphere traditions of ham, turkey and Christmas puddings," he said.
"After spending the past few years under the shadow of lockdowns, we are seeing Australians out and about more than ever this year. This makes it really important to plan ahead and secure any holiday week reservations now."
ARA's 5 Tips to avoid the Christmas rush
- Pre-order: Research and order ahead for any critical items - particularly fresh food items. Click and Collect is a great option and is offered by most large retailers.
- Check delivery times: with many items now past the recommended point for safe delivery pre-Christmas make sure you check postal delivery times at AusPost here. Express post cut off Aus Post 19 Dec (14 Dec WA)
- Plan your trip: Many retailers have extended shopping hours - research and avoid peak times to avoid queues. More details here.
- Consider Gift cards: Gift cards, purchased and sent electronically, are a great last-minute option and can avoid postal delays.
- Be patient - many retailers remain short staffed due to labour shortages and are doing their absolute best. Patience and courtesy are always encouraged especially during this peaceful time of the year.
