Boxing Day sales experienced a muted start this year as shoppers continued to favor online shopping over physical stores. Data from MRI Software indicated that by 3 p.m., visits to UK high streets were down 1.5% compared to 2024, while shopping centers saw a 0.6% decrease.
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 amount spent online is also projected to decline.
The figures suggest a shift in consumer behavior, indicating that Boxing Day sales are losing their significance as a major shopping event. While people are still engaging in shopping activities, the overall spending is expected to be lower this year compared to the previous year. The Barclays consumer spend report revealed that shoppers who plan to shop have increased their budgets by 17% compared to 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 trend reflects a broader shift in consumer preferences and shopping habits, with online platforms and alternative shopping days gaining popularity.
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