Crowded inner cities, but customers are reluctant in many places: in the run-up to Christmas there is still room for improvement for NRW retailers. But because of the long Advent season, the Christmas business will probably be postponed anyway.
Düsseldorf (dpa / lnw) - The retail trade in North Rhine-Westphalia has drawn a mixed balance of the third weekend in Advent: Although many people were out and about in the city centers on Saturday. But only a quarter of the companies surveyed currently estimate the sales development to be higher than in the previous year, the trade association of North Rhine-Westphalia said on Sunday based on a survey of retailers. According to the majority of retailers surveyed, the reasons for the reluctance to shop in the run-up to Christmas are the effects of the Ukraine war, inflation and the increased energy and electricity costs.
Warm clothing such as wool socks, winter shoes, boots, coats and slippers were in demand, mainly because of the cold weather conditions. Bed linen and smaller gift items such as home accessories were also purchased. "E-bikes and energy-saving electrical and kitchen appliances were also readily bought," said the association. Buyers also took home high-quality jewelery and perfumes. Stuffed animals were very popular with children.
"After all, some retailers expect pre-Christmas sales to at least remain the same, if not grow, for the coming week of Advent and the comparatively long time until Christmas Eve," explained the trade association.
In the first few weeks, many customers found their way around or bought smaller items such as sweets or small items for the advent calendar. On Christmas Eve, more and more "right" Christmas presents would be bought.
