Readers of The Courier will spend at least £800 this Christmas, a survey has revealed.
A poll by YourViewK looked at the spending habits of readers of DC Thomson’s news titles and found that gifts and food account for the largest chunk of people’s budgets.
On average, people fork out almost £500 on presents and tasty treats, with a further £177 going towards socialising and festive days out.
Although more than a quarter of respondents admitted they will be cutting back this year, charity remains at the forefront of their mind.
Typically, Courier readers will donate more during the festive season than any other title with an outlay of £35 the average donation is £30.
Meanwhile, readers revealed they referred to shop local, rather than venture further afield.
Around 20% of people said they will be doing their Christmas shopping in Dundee this year and a third of respondents will spend between £100 and £200.
Additionally, supermarkets and high street stores are the most likely places for shoppers to grab a bargain, along with online retailers. Thrifty readers also revealed a series of measures to help them cut down on the cost of Christmas.
Around 36% of people will create a budget alongside using discount vouchers and codes, while 20% will wait for the sales before they start their shopping.
Almost one in five will cut back on other costs to get through the festive season, while others rely on supermarket savings schemes and discount websites to get a great deal.
Director of the Scottish Retail Consortium, David Lonsdale revealed the run-up to Christmas was the “most important” trading period for retailers.
He said: “Last year shoppers in the UK spent £41 billion in the five weeks up to December 25.
“With shop price inflation at a record low and average pay outstripping inflation for the first time in five years, consumers are set to benefit from some great deals over the next few weeks on items such as clothing, beauty products, electrical goods, home entertainment and seasonal fare.”