Here’s my (updated) view of Christmas and how it’s tracking in the newsagencies I am seeing including data up to Saturday December 10:
Cards. Very strong. Indications of double digit growth on last year.
Lotteries. String. Just on double digit growth thanks to the $32 million superdraw on December 31 it’s a popular gift.
Specialty confectionery. Good. Not quite double digit growth.
Gifts. Patchy – depending on the store.
Calendars. Stuffed. Well and truly. Has not picked up since I last commented. In fact, it is worse – and not just in newsagencies. I am aware of sales collapses in specialty calendar outlets.
Magazines. Flat due to other spending.
Money transfer. There is plenty of money being sent to relatives overseas for Christmas gifts.
Stationery. Strong. Especially items under $10.00. Newsagents have some good specials this year and they’re working well.
Newspapers are much stronger this year than last – because of the CDs, DVDs, bags and other promotions each week.