Back-to-School (BTS) purchases in Australia are expected to generate approximately $2.7 billion in sales as students prepare to return to their schools.
According to the Australian Retailers Association (ARA), the estimated expenditure is $150 million (5.9 per cent), higher than last year’s BTS spending due to population growth and inflation.
A study conducted by ARA and Roy Morgan shows that 5.1 million (24 per cent of Australians aged 18+) will spend an average of $525 on BTS-related items. This represents an increase from the average of $512 last year.
“Back to School sales are the first seasonal moment for retail after Boxing Day and peak season trading. Whilst these are mainly essential purchase items, for many retailers, they provide positive momentum to begin the year,” said ARA chief industry affairs officer Fleur Brown.
“After a tough year, with interest rates remaining high and household budgets stretched for many families, we expect to see a continued focus on value in the spending activity. Typically, uniforms, stationery, books and shoes make up most of the spending, with tech, school bags, lunch boxes and water bottles also highly sought after.”
In addition, the majority (65 per cent) will shop in-store, with 33 per cent purchasing online and 37 per cent purchasing directly from the school or school vendors.
