The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) and Roy Morgan are expecting to see sales of barbecues, camping and outdoor leisure equipment to rise 135 per cent in the lead up to Christmas.
By looking at the same shopping period from last year, new research from ARA and Roy Morgan has revealed which categories are expected to show the biggest growth in November 2014 – January 2015.
Sales of perfumes and aftershaves are expected to go up 58 per cent and women’s dresses are expected to rise 54 per cent.
Russell Zimmerman, ARA Executive, said while shoppers are still buying traditional gifts such as perfumes and women’s clothes, these results point to a rise in consumers stocking up on gifts relating to outdoor activities.
“Australian’s have been born and bred to enjoy the great outdoors over summer and that includes heading away with the family on camping trips and regular social barbecues with friends,” Mr Zimmerman said.
“We’re expecting to see a lot of tents, picnic gear, high-quality outdoor furniture and other leisure-based gifts under Christmas trees this year. These items are often able to be enjoyed by the entire family, therefore providing great value for money for the penny-conscious shopper.”
Mr Zimmerman said the 135 per cent rise in barbecues, camping and outdoor leisure equipment is “music to the ears” for outdoor retailers that have seen poor revenue over the winter.
“When comparing hottest Christmas items of 2013 with hottest Christmas items of 2012, there are a few notable trends that we can expect to see reflected in this year’s Christmas sales,” Mr Zimmerman said.
“Women’s sleepwear sales are also up significantly (36 per cent) but are offset by falls in other women’s apparel categories including jeans (-43 per cent), sportswear (-38 per cent), socks (-29 per cent) and coats (-27 per cent).
“Car care products will remain great stocking fillers (up 28 per cent) as well as craft and hobby related products which are set to experience a jump in sales by 27 per cent this Christmas.”
The ARA expects Australians will spend $45 billion from 15 November – 24 December, a 4.3 per cent rise from the $43 billion spent during the same period last year.
