December 22, 2019

Aussies tightening the belt on their holiday relaxation and retail therapy.

Australian Shoppers have hit the streets early to make sure both the “naughty and nice” lists are ticked off in plenty of time this year for Christmas but are slimming down on spending according to a new survey from the Tourism & Transport Forum and Pure Profile.

With just 3 days to go before the big bloke in red arrives, 35% of those surveyed already have their feet up on the sun lounge and are sipping cocktails after having started their Christmas shopping in November.

However, this year Aussies are spending less at the shops with 53% of those surveyed capping their Christmas spend at $500 while 31% surveyed will cap their spend at $1000.

“Our survey also tells us many Australians are out of the gates early in terms of Christmas shopping, but they are not splurging this year,

”Tourism & Transport Chief Executive Margy Osmond said.

These thrifty shoppers also seem to be saving cash by holidaying in their own backyards with some 53% choosing to holiday in their own state. Only 24% have indicated they are heading off on a Christmas break and for most it will only be 2-7 days of relaxation.

“There appears to be a degree of caution in the air when it comes to spending up big this year.”

The survey also revealed that most Victorians at 46% have opted to hold back their shopping perhaps waiting for the sales and waiting to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the December rush.

On the organised side of this year’s Christmas shop, women are ahead of men by almost 10% .

And Canberrans at 53% and South Australians at 47% lead the starters mark when it comes to being crowned the most organised shoppers with many already relaxing by the pool having knocked of their Christmas shopping in November.

“I can happily report that I am part of the 16% of News South Wales shoppers who go hard and hit the shops this weekend!” Ms Osmond said.

 

For 2019 hard goods including toys are the preferred gift to give with 34% of those surveyed choosing to purchase gifts ahead of gift vouchers at 21% and experiences at 8%.

For further information please contact Anna Wallin, Media and Communications Manager Tourism & Transport Forum on 0408 832 999  or email awallin@ttf.org.au