Boxing Day sales begin at Myer. Picture: Chris Scott Source: News Limited
THOUSANDS of hardcore bargain hunters have flocked to stores around Melbourne for one of the busiest trading days of the year.
Hundreds of shoppers gathered in Bourke St over night, some waiting in line for almost 12 hours before retailer giants Myer and David Jones opened their doors at 5am.
>> BOXING DAY BARGAIN HUNT TO TIP IN $1.9 BILLION
"I was the first one here,'' said Johnny Nguyen, 19, who has waited since 6.30pm.
"I have kept awake the whole time, people would think I am crazy.''
Shoppers gathered in the CBD, Chadstone and Doncaster with hundreds of prizes issued for their commitment to the Boxing Day bonanza.
The first 100 people in the queue had the chance to take home $50 TV units, $5 designer perfumes and other super cheap deals. Picture: Chris Scott Source: News Limited
Sisters Janice, 19 and Anne-Marie Cook, 15 from Caroline Springs both won golden tickets from Myer in Bourke St, nabbing themselves a $1300 Hisense television for just $50 and a bottle of Nicky Manaj perfume for $5.
"I am so happy I got a TV,'' said Janice.
"We bought lost of Vs (energy drinks) to keep us awake, we were a bit delirious but we kept each other entertained.''
The post-Christmas clearance season is the single-most critical period for retailers.
Victorians are expected to spend $637 million today, more than any other state according to the Australian National Retailers Association.
Crowds jostle for a bargain at Boxing Day sales. Picture: Chris Scott Source: News Limited
Nationwide we are expected to spend $1.9 billion - up 5.5 per cent on 2012.
David Jones regional manager Victoria Lyn James said shoes and handbags were the biggest hit among female shoppers, while men were opting for business shirts at the sales.
The Homewares section was also proving to be popular this year.
"Early indications show it will be a really super day,'' Ms James said.
"Crowds this year have been very encouraging.''
Myer Executive General Manager Tony Sutton said online sales which launched Christmas Day were strong.
Janice Cook, 19, and younger sister, Anne-Marie Cook, 15, with Gold Tickets that won them a opportunity to buy a $1300 3D TV for just $50 and a celebrity perfume for just $5. Source: News Limited
"We were on track yesterday to double previous year's sale online,'' Mr Sutton said.
"I think you have two different types of shoppers, some who like to shop online for convenience but you also have the familes and friend who want to come out.''
It is expected online spending will hit $2.8 billion this year increasing by 13.8 per cent.
alex.white@news.com.au
No comments:
Post a Comment