Consumers Are 'Not Ready To Tighten Purse Strings'

Britons are set to spend an increasing amount of money this Christmas, new data shows.

Britons are set to spend an increasing amount of money this Christmas, new data shows.

In research conducted by Mintel, retail sales in the approach to the festive season are to be between two and three per cent higher than figures recorded in 2006. The study also reveals that a third of Britons believe that although their finances will come under more pressure during Christmas, they are still set to splash out during the period, with applying for a quick loan one possible way in which to meet such expenses.

In addition, findings from the company indicated that more people are set to use the internet as a means of purchasing festive gifts. Some 38 per cent of adults claim they will get a few items using the web, while about one in ten people will go online to buy most of their presents. And with more than half (52 per cent) of British households having broadband access, using the internet to get a loan online could be helpful for those looking to supplement their spending.

Meanwhile, just over a fifth (22 per cent) of adults state that they are due to spend less money this festive period than the previous year, compared to 18 per cent making such a claim in 2002. In turn this may result in more people being in a comfortable position in which to make repayments on personal loans, utility bills and other forms of financial expense.

Commenting on the figures, Richard Perks, director of retail research for Mintel, said: "During 2007 overall spending has slowed down, but our research shows that confidence is still remarkably strong. The signs are that nothing is going to come between British shoppers and having a good Christmas this year.

"Low unemployment means people feel secure about their jobs and their monthly pay cheques. This combined with the fact that the impact of rising interest rates on predominantly fixed-rate mortgages will take another year and a half or so to work through, means British consumers are not yet ready to tighten the purse strings."

However, Mr Perks also suggested that a number of people are adopting an "element of caution" in terms of managing their money. Findings from the market research firm also showed that the proportion of people who will budget their Christmas spending this year stands at 46 per cent, an increase from the 39 per cent noted five years ago.

Those looking to supplement their finances during the festive season may wish to consider applying for a personal loan. Taking out a loan could be particularly advisable as a recent study by Halifax Credit Cards indicates that about two-thirds of consumers do not budget their spending over this time of year. Meanwhile, out of those who are planning their finances, more than a quarter fail to stick to such plans. Overall, the typical shopper spends 384 pounds on an average of 18 gifts. However, with residents in the north of England splashing out 628 pounds, a loan could well help them in getting to grips with their spending both in the weeks immediately preceding and following Christmas.

About the author: Tom Dawson writes for Essentially Home Loans. Our visitors can apply for secured loans online, for whatever reason with whatever credit history. Visit us today for the best rate loans available.