2020’s Christmas season saw Aussies spend a record $55 billion on in-store and online shopping, during the second half of November through to December.
New research from leading parcel delivery service, CouriersPlease revealed that another record-breaking Black Friday may be on the horizon, with 41 per cent of adults, equivalent to 8.2 million, planning to shop during end of year sales.
The research surveyed 1,010 Australians to uncover anticipated consumer shopping behaviours ahead of 2021’s major sale events.
The survey also found that nearly a quarter of participants, (24 per cent), plan to shop the Cyber Monday sales as well.
Chief Commercial Officer at CouriersPlease, Paul Roper said the findings suggest lockdowns and restrictions have solidified the online shopping habits of many Australian shoppers.
The Australian Retailers Association made a slightly more modest forecast, anticipating that consumers will spend over $58 billion via in-store and online shopping during the sales events leading up to Christmas.
CouriersPlease is preparing for a 30 per cent increase on the volume of parcels handled this year compared to last.
“We’re seeing a growing trend of online retailers offering ‘early-bird’ or ‘extended’ sales promotions for major shopping events that are typically promoted as one-day events to maximise revenue,” Roper said.
“As a result, parcel volumes remain high over longer periods of time, causing longer and more intense strains on parcel networks.”
Also discovered by the survey were the types of goods Aussies will be most likely to buy during the holiday season. Over a third, 34 per cent, disclosed they will be vying for technology, electronics, appliances, and furniture. Meanwhile, a quarter (25 per cent) are looking to purchase fashion items.
Roper recommended those living in regional cities, like Canberra, to allow an additional four to six days for delivery during Black Friday sales, to best accommodate the forecasted spike in orders.
“Aussies should also be aware of Christmas cut-off dates for online orders, for shoppers who want to receive their parcels before Christmas.”
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