Shoppers could be in store for a Boxing Day bonanza as retailers are forced to cut prices to attract customers.
Sluggish trade on the high street in the run-up to Christmas has already seen major retailers offer heavy discounts in an effort to stave off competition from online stores and large supermarkets.
Although Friday was expected to be the busiest shopping day of the year as people rushed to buy last-minute presents, shops are expected to slash their prices today to lure people back.
A spokeswoman for the Scottish Retail Consortium said: ”We would expect, obviously, from the high level of promotions and discounts we’ve already seen in the run-up to Christmas that retailers will have to cut prices quite harshly to get customers spending, particularly in Scotland.
”It’s therefore likely that for shops to stand out in the Boxing Day sales amid the traditional hype retailers will be cutting even deeper.
”If you are a consumer who does have a bit of money to spend and there are obviously people who do want to make major purchases at this time of year then there are potentially some very good deals.”
She added that although online retailers get a major boost on Christmas Day as people use vouchers they have received for gifts, the traditional high street sales remain irresistible to many.
Insurance company Green Flag Breakdown estimates that more than five million drivers will take to the road today in a bid to find the best deals, with more than one-in-10 prepared to set off before 9am to ensure they are front of the queue for any bargains.
”Boxing Day sales are something of an event,” said the SRC spokeswoman. ”Online retailers can compete well on price but don’t offer the same experience, so there will be a lot of people hitting the stores.”
A spokeswoman from the Scottish Chambers of Commerce added: ”Retailers have had a difficult few months so December sales are going to be absolutely crucial.
”I think there will be a lot done to attract people after Christmas and before the year ends. We’d envisage discounting and other promotion to really pick up sales.”