The areas of UK where Christmas shoppers expect to spend the most
Christmas shoppers are set to spend significantly more on gifts this year, an increase of over £32 on average compared to 2023, a new survey shows. According to research by MyVoucherCodes, the festive period will see consumers walk away with an average of £377.98; This represents a 9 per cent increase on the £345.35 spent last year.
Regional spending habits reveal notable differences across the UK. Consumers in Northern Ireland expect to spend the highest, budgeting an average of £452.38 on gifts. Conversely, those in the South West of England expect to spend the least at £324.37. Meanwhile, Scottish shoppers are set to spend £443.64 and Welsh shoppers expect an average spend of £366.11.
The research was released ahead of the shopping bonanza of Black Friday (November 28), when many retailers have already started sales.
When asked what they would cut back on to save money this festive season, 36% of people said they would go out less, 34% said they planned to buy fewer clothes and 27% said they would skip a Christmas getaway this year.
Two fifths (39%) will rely on online shopping for last-minute Christmas gifts, rising to 61% among 18-24 year olds.
Sarah-Jane Outten, money-saving expert at MyVoucherCodes, said: “With prices rising on last year, every saving counts. Using discount codes, shopping early and being smart about spending can make a big difference without dampening the festive spirit.”
He suggested setting a “realistic” budget, teaming up with friends or family members to buy a gift, and checking cupboards before heading to the supermarket as ways to keep Christmas spending low.
People can also spend some time researching the current and previous prices of gifts they want to buy before heading to the stores; so they can weigh whether the “special offer” is truly a bargain.
Nearly 2,000 people across the UK were surveyed by OnePoll in November for MyVoucherCodes.
