Next three days absolutely critical for retailers

Media release
Newmarket Business Association
Sunday, 21 December 2008

Next three days absolutely critical for retailers

“The next few days are critical for retailers across the country desperate to get some points on the board after a year that’s gone from bad to worse,” says the head of Auckland’s leading retailing district.

“We need Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday to deliver shoppers. Last time Christmas was on a Thursday those three days were huge but we’re mindful that was in 2003 when the economy was rocketing and house prices in Auckland went up nearly 20%,” says Cameron Brewer, general manager of the Newmarket Business Association.

“It’s becoming increasingly clear that people have not just cut back on the money they’re spending but on the number of people they’re buying for.

“So far we’ve seen busy streets and shops, but we’re not seeing the long queues for the counters and the gridlocked car parks.

“With many retailers forced into sale mode, with operating costs up and the dollar down, the margins this Christmas are very tight. Retailers know they need a strong Christmas, because by all accounts 2009 is going to be a very difficult year.”

“We have marketed Newmarket in the lead up to Christmas more than ever before. We’ve now got our fingers crossed that this much talked-about last minute rush will eventuate. If there ever was 72 hours when the cash registers needed to ring long and loud it was now,” says Mr Brewer.

Ends

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