Christmas shoppers will be splashing out on food
Published On 12 December 2007
More than two thirds (71 per cent) of Christmas shoppers are planning to give food as a present this year, while 65 per cent are planning to fill their loved ones' stockings with wine or spirits, according to a new study from secure online payment organisation PayPal.Despite high-demand for the latest gadgets, the survey revealed that only 40 per cent of shoppers are planning to buy electrical goods for Christmas, while just 11 per cent are expecting to buy sports equipment for friends or family.
After food, the most popular Christmas purchase was found to be CDs and DVDs (70 per cent), while 64 per cent plan to buy clothing and 63 per cent are looking to buy the latest bestseller from their favourite author.
"The majority of us really look forward to Christmas because of the unexpected presents we're all keen to receive," said Cristina Hoole, shopping expert at PayPal. "Shopping is part and parcel of Christmas and putting a smile on someone's face with a fab present is usually the pick-me-up we all need and like at the end of a tough year. However, from the PayPal findings, this year will be a booze filled, stomach satisfying affair."
According to PayPal, Christmas spending this year is expected to half from two years ago, down from £310 on average in 2005, to £154 in 2007.
