Bumper crowds expected at Robina Town Centre and Pacific Fair for Boxing Day sales

The Gold Coast’s biggest shopping centres are gearing up for “the most highly anticipated shopping day of the year”. Here’s how to get the best bargains.

Billions of dollars are expected to be splashed out across the country this Boxing Day as Gold Coast retailers brace for impact.

A survey by Finder revealed one in three Aussies planned to take advantage of what Pacific Fair senior marketing manager Kate Halpin called “the most highly anticipated shopping day of the year”.

“Boxing Day still remains our largest foot traffic day of the year at Pacific Fair,” she said.

“We’ve certainly seen an increase in shoppers making the most of the Black Friday sales ahead of Christmas, but that hasn’t stopped interest in Boxing Day.”

Shoppers across the nation are expected to spend $3.4 billion at this year’s major sales event – more than half of the $7 billion anticipated ahead of November’s Black Friday sales.

Latisha Cordwell from NUDELUCY Shoppers are bracing for Boxing Day sales, with Robina Town Centre leading the charge. Monday December 23, 2024. Picture: John Gass

Robina Town Centre marketing manager Ashlee Hume said, while online sales had caused a “shift” in shopping behaviour across the Robina centre, a strong turn out was still expected on December 26 when shoppers could save up to 70 per cent.

“Black Friday has definitely seen a shift in behaviours, with many consumers already having made purchases earlier in the season,” she said.

“However, Boxing Day still holds a special place and we do see a mix of shoppers – some who want to get in early for the best in-store deals, while others are more strategic, preferring a slower-paced shopping experience throughout the day.”

Additional customer service representatives at Pacific Fair, extra security and parking attendants to help facilitate traffic have been enlisted to manage the anticipated influx of shoppers.

Latisha Cordwell from NUDELUCY with Amie Brown and Casey Parsons Shoppers are bracing for Boxing Day sales, with Robina Town Centre leading the charge. Monday December 23, 2024. Picture: John Gass

Ms Halpin said Pacific Fair was also working with Queensland Police Service to ensure additional safety measures both within the centre and on the outskirts.

“The best tip for making the most of the Boxing Day sales is to have a plan in mind for approaching your shopping day,” Ms Halpin said.

“Know which stores are on the top of your list to visit and try to get there early or later in the afternoon.

“We have hundreds of retailer’s offers listed on the Pacific Fair website, so it’s worth having a look in advance to find the best deals that you know you want to take advantage of, and get in early wherever possible.”

Pacific Fair and Robina Town Centre will be open from 9am to 6pm on Boxing Day.