BRC Director General, Kevin Hawkins comments that when it comes to Christmas 2005, they are again seeing that many traditional presents such as clothing, jewellery, CDs and books are on people's gift list.
However, technology items are on the 'must have' lists with MP3 players such as the new Nano and video i-Pod proving very difficult to find on store shelves due to the high level of demand. Equally popular are the new gaming machines with people queuing to purchase PSPs and X-Boxes.
While 2005 has been a tough year for many retailers and consumers have benefited from the significant discounts available on the high street, their advice to consumers is not to leave their Christmas shopping until the last minute in the hope of significant discounts.
Retailers have been monitoring stock levels closely over the last few months and if people do leave shopping until the last minute they may find that variety is limited.
The British Retail Consortium is the lead trade association for the UK retail industry. It 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.
British Retail Consortium
marketing@alchempro.com
