With less than two months until Christmas, the next few weeks will naturally be a crucial trading period for both suppliers and retailers, with the cost of living crisis, increased energy bills, rampant inflation, and a soaring rise in interest rates, all predicted to impact on consumer spending.
However, ‘Christmas always happens’ has long been the mantra of the majority of gift retailers and suppliers, with Lesser & Pavey’s managing director, Julian Hunt, feeling optimistic.
“Our Christmas ranges were received really well this year and we have very nearly sold out of all Christmas related product,” he confirms. “Since Autumn Fair, we have enjoyed a steady pick up in trade which shows no signs of slowing down as we head closer to the festive period. In fact, so far, our sales are ahead of last year.”
Julian continues: “with the delays we all faced last year, we made a concerted effort to ship our Christmas ranges, and back end gifting products, earlier than previously, with our customers pleased to receive products earlier. As such, we are seeing good repeat orders.”
He adds that, compared to previous years, customers are spreading their spending. “They want full shops and don’t want to miss out on sales, but definitely started taking stock in earlier to achieve this.”
As for consumer spending this Christmas, he comments: “with the cost of living being so prevalent in the news, I think it’s on everyone’s minds that they need to be more careful with their money. We don’t think this will necessarily mean less money spent on gifts, but they may well start buying earlier. The joy of giving a thoughtful gift at Christmas won’t go away. More than ever, we have focused on delivering value for money quality products at a wide range of different price points.”
On the question of sustainability, he says that awareness around it continues to grow, and is at the forefront of people’s minds. “We keep this in mind when we are buying products, continually trying to reduce plastic packaging and looking to reduce our carbon footprint.”
Commenting on how online sales will fare this year, he says that while online still appears to be a hugely popular way to shop, he feels that: “at Christmas, a lot of people enjoy getting out, visiting their local towns, seeing the lights, and getting into the Christmas spirit.”
Above: People are likely to shop earlier for Christmas gifts this year, say Lesser & Pavey.
