14/12/2001

Few British consumers will rein in Christmas spending

A new survey by market analyst, Mintel has revealed that few people across the UK have plans to keep a check on their Christmas spending this year despite concerns about economic downturn and fears over job security.

The survey revealed that one third of consumers plan to splash out more this Christmas than last year, while British men are the most optimistic, with 35 per cent planning to spend more this Christmas than last. However, around 16 per cent of shoppers felt they were likely to go into debt this Christmas.

About half of British shoppers plan to spend the same as last year, while only 17 per cent plan to spend less. While just 14 per cent said they were less inclined to spend as much on Christmas shopping due to current global events, and the attacks on 11 September.

Mintel also found that on average people plan to spend £376 this Christmas and will buy on average eleven presents for members of their family and friends. (MB)

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