IGA spruiks staggered purchase plan for Christmas lunch

Cost-of-living threatens to blow out the cost of Christmas lunch for lots of Aussies, but one retailer reckons there’s an easy way to space out spending for the big day.

Cost-of-living threatens to wallop Aussies at Christmas this year, but a simple hack could save Christmas lunch from breaking the bank in December.

Retailer IGA recommends a staggered purchase plan, in which families spread out their expenses to prevent a concentrated hit to the hip pocket as the Christmas season crescendos.

With six weeks to go, the retailer recommends stocking up on dried herbs and fruit and buying up cling-wrap, foil and baking paper.

With five weeks to go, scope out chips, crackers and nuts, soft-drink and honey, and sauces and condiments.

At the four week mark, stock up on ham, puddings and Christmas cakes and candy canes, and store the ham in the fridge.

At three weeks, frozen fruits and vegetables, pastries and seafood.

Retailer IGA recommends Aussies begin buying up their Christmas feast in the weeks leading up to the big day. Picture: IGA

At two weeks, go for turkey, ice cream, salmon and mince pies and shortbread.

Then with one week left, IGA recommends a shop for fresh produce, dairy products, dips, bacon, and fresh pastries.

IGA national retailer council chair Joseph Romeo said the staggered purchase plan was designed to beat the “chaos” of Christmas shopping.

“It’s all about beating the chaos at Christmas,” he said.

“We know this time of year can be overwhelming and the last thing Aussies want to do sometimes is visit a busy supermarket in a shopping centre.”

“Don’t underestimate the pre-shop prep. Build your shopping list by looking at the weekly catalogue.

“Every week IGA has great weekly specials, half price offers and great deals to help you plan your shop and get the best value, particularly in the lead up to Christmas.”

A staggered purchase plan could help families avoid a concentrated hit to the hip pocket in December, the retailer says. Picture: IGA

There are some 1400 IGA stores across Australia and the retailer competes with behemoths Woolworths, Coles and Aldi in the grocery market.

A survey of 502 Australian adults across November, commissioned by the company, found some 64 per cent of Australians said they were stressed by the cost of groceries at Christmas time.

Some 31 per cent leave their shopping until the last week, the survey found, or don’t plan for Christmas at all.

The survey also offers some insights into how Australians will likely celebrate December 25.

Those under 35 years are more likely to have barbecue meats, roast lamb, and roast beef on their table while those over 55 are more likely to opt for prawns.

Originally published as IGA spruiks staggered purchase plan for Christmas lunch