Boxing Day sales experienced a muted start this year as shoppers continued to favor online shopping over traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Footfall on UK high streets was down 1.5% by 3 p.m. compared to 2024, while shopping centers saw a 0.6% decrease, according to data from MRI Software.

MRI's data indicated that retail parks experienced a 6.7% increase in visitors compared to the previous year, but this rise was not substantial enough to significantly boost overall visitor numbers. Barclays anticipates shoppers will spend £3.6 billion in the sales, a decrease from the £4.6 billion forecast for the 2024 sales, with fewer individuals planning to participate in bargain hunting this year. The projected amount spent online is also expected to decline.

While consumers are still engaging in shopping activities, the figures suggest that Boxing Day sales are losing their significance as a major retail event. The Barclays consumer spend report indicates that shoppers who plan to make purchases have increased their budgets by 17% compared to last year, but overall spending on Boxing Day sales is projected to be lower this year than last year.

Karen Johnson, head of retail at Barclays, noted that shoppers have been cost-conscious throughout the year, and this behavior is likely to continue. This shift in consumer behavior reflects a broader trend of evolving shopping habits, with online platforms and alternative shopping days gaining prominence.