There were long queues in Manchester as shoppers hit the Boxing Day sales in search of a bargain. But parts of the city centre appeared much quieter than normal at this time of year as the cost-of-living crisis means many are feeling the pinch.
Rail strikes also made it harder for shoppers to head into town. But many did the make the effort, with queues forming outside Selfridges early this morning while a crowd of people gathered outside the Arndale as it opened at 8am.
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One of the most popular shops was cosmetics store Lush, which saw shoppers standing in line for three hours before it opened at 11am. Among those making an early start was James McGlynn, from Withington.
He got up at 6am and got to the front of the queue for Lush just before 8am. He said he wanted to come in person to avoid possible disruption because of the postal strikes and was planning to stock up on cosmetics for the year.
The Trafford Centre was also busy, with pictures showing large crowds of people early this afternoon.
But despite the crowds shoppers are expected to spend 4% less on the sales this year as the cost-of-living crisis continues to bite, according to new data. Research by Barclaycard Payments found that the average shopper intends to buy £229 worth of items, a reduction of £18 compared with 2021.
But it's it still expected to be a busy end to 2022, with technology retailers expected to particularly benefit from shoppers seeking a bargain. Personal technology items were the most sought-after by those questioned about the sales, at 42% of consumers.
Food and drink items are also expected to be popular, according to the credit card business. Harshna Cayley, head of online payments at Barclaycard Payments, said: "The rising cost of living and inflationary pressures have naturally had an impact on the amount being spent in the post-Christmas sales this year.
"Having said that, retailers can take confidence knowing that shoppers still plan to make the most of the deals and discounts on offer."
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