Despite high inflation, rising energy prices and a tighter labour market, 33% of firms in Scotland expect this Christmas trading period to be merry and bright compared to last year.
The latest Lloyds Bank Business Barometer found that those predicting a bumper festive period cited having more time to prepare (25%), while increasing customer demand was cited by 22% of firms, as they felt less affected by Covid restrictions, compared to this time in 2021.
Those expecting a worse Christmas trading period said they were struggling with increased costs of doing business (10%).
