€1.5bn festive spree to be retail lifeline
Expenditure is expected to be reduced by up to 10.6% on last year and the spree will be 33% smaller than in 2008 but the nation’s love affair with the season could still prove a lifeline for struggling retailers.
Each of the country’s 1.5 million households intends spending an average of €1,020 over and above normal bills, comprising €650 on presents, €250 on festive food and €120 on socialising outside of home.
