Helen Dickinson, Head of Retail, KPMG comments: “The December results are the best monthly set of figures since May 2004. The poor expectations in the lead up to Christmas released retailers from the burden of expectation which badly blighted Christmas 2004.”
This meant that retailers' plans and strategies in the run-up to Christmas 2005 were adjusted accordingly. For example, more of the discounting activity was targeted promotions on specific lines to drive footfall rather than blanket sales to shift surplus stock.
Also the timing of Christmas contributed to the improved trading performance. More shops opened on Boxing Day this year, as opposed to last year when it fell on a Sunday. And with Christmas Eve falling on a Saturday, there was an extra trading day in Christmas week.
Leading trade organization BRC is representing the whole range of retailers, from the large multiples and department stores through to independents, selling a wide selection of products through centre of town, out of town, rural and virtual stores.
The British Retail Consortium
marketing@alchempro.com
