Despite an abundance of gadgets available, consumers are turning to traditional presents this year, with a new survey revealing the humble book will be the most popular present under the Christmas tree.
Figures released by the Australian Retailers Association (ARA) reveal consumers are more likely to buy a book as a gift this year than an iPod. Up to 70 percent of consumers are buying books, 64 percent are buying clothes and footwear, 45 percent are buying iPods and MP3 players, 42 percent are buying Lego sets and board games, while 30 percent are buying tickets to sports events and theatre productions.
ARA Executive Director Russell Zimmerman said consumer patterns have understandably changed over the past year.
“This Christmas, there is no doubt that consumers will shop, but their purchase patterns will mirror the careful optimism they feel about the economy,” he said.
