‘Steady’ stream of shoppers for post-Christmas sales

Retailers in Dublin city centre have said there has been a “steady” stream of shoppers for the post-Christmas sales.

Businesses said they were hopeful that people would come out in their droves after a slower start to spending earlier this month due to bad weather and an increase in online purchases.

A queue of around 80 people formed outside Brown Thomas on Grafton Street before it opened at 10am.

A spokesperson said that a higher number of men than usual were picking up items at discounted prices.

Many stores are offering up to 50% off and tourists visiting the city over the festive season are also availing of the deals.

One couple from the United States said they found the sales in Ireland were “much better” than any of the Black Friday offers at home.

Shoppers are also making requests for returns and exchanges on Christmas gifts they received but do not want.

They are being reminded that this can be more difficult without a receipt.

Research from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission shows that 42% never include a gift receipt with presents given at Christmas.

The survey also found that just 5% of people surveyed would ask for a receipt in order to exchange an unwanted gift.

Shoppers on Grafton and Henry streets in Dublin had mixed views on what to do with unwanted gifts with many saying that they would regift or give the item to charity.

Director of Retail Ireland Arnold Dillon has said there has been a positive start to the sales “helped in part by clear weather” which has encouraged footfall across towns and shopping centres.

He also said the continued rise of the ‘precision shopper’ is evident.

That is, “Consumers who arrive in-store having already researched products, prices and availability online.

“That means shoppers are more focused and confident in their purchasing decisions, which is encouraging for retailers.”