Cavan the big pre-Christmas spenders as shopping levels rise in December

Total countrywide spend this year increased by 8%, with social spending rising by 7% overall and retail spending up 4%. Picture: Gareth Chaney/Collins

Irish people are splashing the cash in December — with natives of Cavan posting the largest increase compared to this time last year.

Spending in the Ulster county rose by 11% in the fortnight leading up to Christmas compared to the same period in 2022.

Donegal, Kildare and Longford all saw rises of 9%, while spending in Dublin, Galway and Waterford also saw hefty increases when compared to last Christmas.

The figures, released by Bank of Ireland, also show Carlow shoppers are keeping the tightest strings on their purses, posting just a 4% increase in 2023.

Total countrywide spend this year increased by 8%, with social spending rising by 7% overall and retail spending up 4%. 

Restaurants (+10%) and pubs (+7%) enjoyed a timely spending boost, while outlay in beauty spas rose by 9%, as people enjoyed some pre-Christmas pampering. 

Naturally, spending on toys also jumped, with a 9% increase.

However, the biggest rise in terms of year-on-year spending came in cinemas.

Compared to 2022, there was a massive 65% increase in the spending on people going to the movies in December.

In terms of age groups, spending rose highest amongst 18–25-year olds (+11%), closely followed by 36-45 year olds (+10%) and 26-35-year olds (+8%). 

It is also clear some people have jetted off to catch some winter sun, as card spending in Portugal and Spain also rose.

Bank of Ireland's head of customer journeys Jilly Clarkin explained: "For businesses nationwide it’s great to see a jump in spending as consumers get a head-start on their Christmas shopping. 

"Cavan households can look forward to a bumper Christmas judging by a significant yearly increase — whilst those living in Carlow must hope that their families and friends are holding back for a dash to the shops closer to Christmas Day."