Central London retailers eye Christmas shopping sales jump this 'Super Saturday'

Central London retailers could be in line for bumper trading this 'super' Saturday as shoppers rush out for last-minute Christmas gifts and lead sales and footfall to jump by at least a fifth for some brands, it has been predicted.

Diane Wehrle, CEO of consultancy Rendle Intelligence and Insights said: "Whilst in previous years the last Saturday before Christmas has been given the moniker of “Super Saturday” even though it may be four or five days out from the day itself, this year it’s right on target."

"This year it coincides with the peak trading day of the entire Christmas period of December 23."

She added: "On that one-day retailers in the capital should expect footfall and sales to be a minimum of 20% higher than the week before." Wehrle also anticipates high spending on 'fantastic' Friday.

That will be welcome after a challenging start to the season, with higher interest rates and inflation weighing on consumer sentiment.

The latest update came shortly after MRI Software said footfall in central London in the week to December 16 was 22.5% higher than the same period in 2022. Although it pointed out visitor numbers were impacted last year due to rail strikes.

Meanwhile retailers told the Evening Standard they are prepared for a busy run up to Christmas Day.

Carl Barlett, senior manager, flagship stores for Disney Store said: “We’ve seen huge enthusiasm from consumers in the run up to Christmas, and anticipate welcoming many more families and fans in the coming days."

In Oxford Street the company will be welcoming customers in-store until 10pm on Friday and Saturday, and 5pm on Christmas Eve.

At baby goods retailer JoJo Maman Bébé, chief executive Gwynn Milligan said: “This weekend will understandably be a busy time for retailers with the festive build-up, so we expect JoJo to see an uplift of footfall in stores with last-minute Christmas shoppers. JoJo looks forward to welcoming all customers into stores this weekend for those special gifts ahead of the big day.”