Why shoppers are braving the crowds for the second biggest sale day of the year

‘The shopping has not really stopped’: For those with some cash to splash, here’s why Boxing Day sales will not disappoint.

Shoppers in Elizabeth Street Mall. Boxing Day sales in Hobart in previous years. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

If Santa didn’t sort you out the Boxing Day sales will — for those with a little cash leftover to spend.

Hobart Chamber of Commerce chair and CEO of Tasmanian Small Business Council Robert Mallet said shopping regions had been busy since advertising for Black Friday sales began six weeks ago and he expected that trend to continue on Boxing Day.

“People have been out shopping a couple weeks prior to Black Friday and the shopping has not really stopped,” he said.

“Unless people have spent all their money the Boxing Day sales never fail to deliver and every one should be happy.”

Mr Mallet said shoppers should keep their eyes peeled for good discounts on regular stock as businesses try to make room for the next season.

He said shoppers should not be surprised if some small businesses are closed while the owners take a well deserved break after a hectic season.

Myer team members Anjila Subedi, Alice Mummery and Cayla Lin in the shoe department. Myer Stocktake Sale starts on Boxing Day. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Myer is set to attract a crowd with discounts up to 70 per cent on some items with a combined Boxing Day/ Stocktake sale.

A Myer spokesman said the sales were the “perfect opportunity” to take advantage of deep discounts on items.

They expected household items to fly out the door during the sale which begins on Boxing Day and runs through to the end of January.

“Think sheets, towels, dinnerware, glassware; parents stocking up on clothes for the kids; activewear fly off the shelves for those new year resolutions; and it’s a great time for customers to pick up bathers too for those summer holidays,” the spokesman said.

Research by Finder found a third of Australian’s plan to hit the shops this Boxing Day.

Shopping expert at Finder Chris Jager said Boxing Day is one of the year’s most eagerly awaited shopping events, second to Black Friday.

“Lots of retailers will offer exclusive online discounts, making it convenient for shoppers to grab deals without battling crowds,” he said.

“Many shoppers will be looking to the sales to snag items they’ve been eyeing or missed during Black Friday.”

The research found shoppers are expected to spend an average of $489 each during the sales period, totalling $3.4 billion nationwide.

The younger generations, gen Y ($673) and gen Z ($411), are likely to spend more, while the older generations, gen X ($369) and baby boomers ($230), will be more mindful with their spending.

The research found women ($507) plan to spend more than men ($470).

Originally published as Why shoppers are braving the crowds for the second biggest sale day of the year