More than half (54%) of British shoppers will have started their Christmas shopping by October half-term this year as savvy spenders look to spread the cost of gifts over a longer period, new research has revealed.
According to a poll by Portsmouth shopping outlet, Gunwharf Quays, six in ten (63%) said they would be starting their shopping early to help with festive financing – almost a third (29.5%) said they had already started buying Christmas gifts.
Eight out of ten cost-conscious consumers (79%) said they would be looking for more bargains and discount shopping this year to help budget for Christmas gifting.
When asked how their Christmas shopping might change this year, the most popular response was “looking for a good deal” (39.6%) followed by those who would “shop more frequently to hunt out the right gift at the right price” (32.5%). Almost a quarter (23%) said they would not make any changes this year.
Yvonne Clay, Centre Director at premium waterfront outlet, Gunwharf Quays, said: “Many shoppers are already on the front foot when it comes to planning their Christmas shopping. This year, more than any in recent times, budgeting will be a key priority as the public look to spread the present-buying cost over a longer period.
“We knew that the Christmas buying season had already started and our research has confirmed that to be the case with almost a third of shoppers saying they’re already underway.
“In fact, more than half the population say they will have started their Christmas shop before October half-term, with the vast majority looking for bargains and discount shopping, something we have plenty of at Gunwharf Quays.”
With more than 90 brands offering up to 60% off RRP, and over 30 restaurants, bars and cafes alongside the stunning Solent waterfront, guests can enjoy a unique shopping experience at Gunwharf Quays.
With the outlet’s Christmas Village and observation wheel set to return in November, there’s plenty of opportunities for some time well spent with family and friends.
