Something to be joyful about

 

trolleynewjpgAustralian retailers can expect some Christmas joy this year, with 2013 Christmas sales expected to grow by 3.3 per cent to $42.1 billion, according to the Australian Retailers Association’s (ARA) annual predictions.

The figures have been put together using research by the ARA and Roy Morgan Research and cover the period from November 14 to December 25, 2013.

ARA executive director, Russell Zimmerman, said the 3.3 per cent growth may result in shoppers starting their Christmas shopping earlier this year, rather than leaving it until late December.

“We know that the week before Christmas will remain the busiest time for pre-Christmas shopping, and therefore the most lucrative time for retailers,” said Zimmerman.

“Retailers are counting on the lead up to Christmas as an opportunity to catch up on past slower retail sales and get back on track financially.”

Apparel sales are expected to see the highest growth, at 6.2 per cent over 2012 for the Christmas period.

“Much like 2012, food and hospitality are expected to account for a significant percent of the overall projected figure, while other categories such as department stores and clothing, footwear and personal accessories may rely on last minute Christmas sales and promotions for any significant growth in sales,” says Zimmerman.

“It is encouraging to see all states and territories likely to experience positive growth for the 2013 pre-Christmas shopping period. Tasmania was the only state facing negative growth in 2012, so it is promising to see Tasmania predicted to flourish alongside the other states and territories this year.”

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