‘Same as last year, not good enough’ - GRTU

A further 36 per cent, anticipate a decrease in sales with only 19 per cent expecting their sales to increase.

Retailers expressed their feeling that the effects of the financial crises have not completely worn off and, in addition the insecurity that was hampering sales last year because of the utility tariffs has not only not worn off but has become more aggravated, as increases were registered for all utilities and water electricity bills are being sent out at this time .

Retailers expressed concern that money put aside to buy gifts for their loved ones, will now be used to settle their pending bills.

Two-thirds of respondents said that since Christmas will fall on a Saturday, most consumers would leave it to the very last week to make their purchases and therefore the week leading to Christmas is expected to be the busiest.

Over 30 per cent said that this week might be busier than Christmas week and a minority said that the week leading to New Year would be busiest, mostly because of salary and sale issues.

Those surveyed were very disappointed with the decision to issue bills just before Christmas and more so because they felt that bills were still being issued haphazardly, this time for the last two months.

“What predictability can the consumer have with these methods? In general consumers are ending up with less disposable income in hand and therefore spending less and concentrating only on spending what is necessary,” a GRTU newsletter commented.

It reported that retailers dealing with electronic goods said they still face a huge disadvantage due to a hefty eco-tax when competing with foreign goods.

“The increase in national contributions and the incessant unfair competition were two other factors which retailers said were not helping,” the GRTU said.

As for the retailers in localities outside Valletta and Sliema, all were very disappointed that no decorations were set up.

The GRTU also asked retailers if there was a product that was standing out as the most frequent amongst the consumer demands.

This year the spotlight seems to be on LED TVs, net books, toy Characters such as Toy Story 3, and inevitably the most innovative, the cheapest and the classic perfume, silver and latest fashion accessories.