While many Australians will be recovering from Christmas Day feasts, a different tradition is set to draw huge crowds: the annual Boxing Day sales. New data confirms that despite the growing popularity of Black Friday, the day after Christmas continues to dominate the retail calendar, with a massive $1.6 billion in spending predicted across the nation.
Hunter Centres Brace for Shopper Surge
In Newcastle and the Hunter region, major shopping hubs are preparing for an influx of bargain hunters. Charlestown Square and Westfield Kotara will open from 8am to 6pm, while Stockland Green Hills and Glendale will trade from 10am to 4pm.
Sarah Kane, Marketing Manager at Charlestown Square, told the Newcastle Herald she anticipates around 10,000 shoppers to pass through the centre's doors. "Boxing Day remains one of the most important retail events of the year," Ms Kane said. "It marks the start of the major clearance period and is a key moment for both shoppers and retailers."
She emphasised the day's cultural significance, noting it's a tradition for many and the perfect time to spend Christmas gift cards.
National Spending Set to Soar
The forecast for a bumper Boxing Day comes from the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and Roy Morgan. Their research predicts national spending will reach $1.6 billion, representing a 4.3 per cent increase compared to last year.
ARA CEO Chris Rodwell broke down the expected expenditure, highlighting key categories:
- Household goods: $476 million
- Clothing, footwear and accessories: $216 million
- Department stores: $123 million
Shoppers can typically look forward to discounts ranging from 20 to 40 per cent, with some retailers advertising end-of-year sales of up to 50 per cent. Technology, leisure, apparel, and health and beauty products are traditionally strong performers.
Black Friday Growth vs. Boxing Day Tradition
Ms Kane acknowledged the substantial growth of the Black Friday sales period but stressed that Boxing Day holds a unique place. "Black Friday has certainly grown in recent years to become a major shopping event in its own right, but Boxing Day still holds a unique place," she said.
This sentiment is echoed in the spending forecasts, which solidify the day's status as a retail powerhouse. Despite widespread cost of living pressures, there appears to be growing positivity in the sector ahead of the post-Christmas rush.
"Anecdotally, retailers are telling us they're busy in the lead-up to Christmas and we're anticipating a good performance," Ms Kane added. She noted that foot traffic is up, with customers visiting for Christmas presents and summer essentials.
Retailers are responding to economic pressures with a strong focus on value, offering sales, promotions, and affordable dining and entertainment options to attract families during the school holidays.
