Shoppers set to spend $45b before Christmas
Shoppers in Market Street, Sydney, get in some last minute shopping before Christmas last year. (AAP)
Australian shoppers are set to splash $45 billion in pre-Christmas sales.
Despite concerns about low jobs growth and consumer confidence, the Australian Retailers Association is predicting a 4.3 per cent jump in spending between November 15 and December 24 over the same period last year.
Hospitality, food and household goods are expected to lead the rise, according to the ARA and Roy Morgan Research.
"This comes as no surprise as department stores and clothing, footwear and personal accessories usually rely on last-minute Christmas promotions for any significant growth in sales during the festive season," ARA executive director Russell Zimmerman said in a statement.
The ARA last year forecasted $42.2 billion in pre-Christmas sales - just shy of the $43 billion actually spent.
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