There is no denying that retailers have been hit with a plethora of obstacles over the past 22 months. From COVID disruptions, and Brexit complications, to shipping and driver shortages, it seems to be one hurdle after another. From this, there has been one question on everyone's mind: “Will we be able to receive Christmas gifts this year?”.
Speaking live to Ian King, Sky News, from The Big Christmas Press Show, which saw 90+ retailers who showcased their top product for Christmas including the likes of Paperchase, Hobbycraft, Homebase and Wilko, CIJ Group Founder, Courtney Rogers, says that Santa will still be coming to town...
Key points from Courtney Rogers:
Products are going to be hitting the shelves later this year than ever before
If you see something you like, buy it now because of the varying shortages and extended delivery times
Christmas became a top key search term in September, so from this we can see that consumers are moving to shopping earlier in the year
There has been so much change in consumer behaviour over lockdown and there has been a spike in pet ownership with an 8% increase.
This has lead to a massive trend for growing your own pets for children and a flurry of toys and games available
So, should consumers panic buy in a scare that they will not be able to get Christmas Gifts this year?
Courtney Rogers says “I don't think consumers need to be worried at all about getting their hands on Christmas gifts. I think there will be certain products that will sell out, however there is going to be a wide variety of gifts available.”
And to all of those last minute shoppers out there…. “Get buying now!”
CIJ Group worked with Bright Star Digital to secure coverage from Sky News and ITV Regions at The Big Christmas Press Show.
CIJ Team