Saxony Trade Association draws a mixed balance

Reticence to buy in the face of crises and cost increases

"In terms of sales, we are roughly at the same level as the previous year if you look at the retail sector as a whole," said Glaser. However, it should be noted that the initial situation for this year's Christmas business was very volatile. It was consistently influenced by difficult economic and social conditions with major uncertainties, crises and, above all, cost increases.

"Ease" of consumption is lacking

"Overall, Christmas business this year therefore faced a very challenging situation. What's more, consumption is also always a little connected to psychology and a good gut feeling - to a certain extent, there was a lack of ease this year due to the general conditions," said the head of the association, describing the situation.

With regard to individual sectors, Glaser emphasized that toys, drugstore and cosmetic products, books and consumer electronics were particularly in demand for this year's Christmas shopping. "In many places, food retailers were also satisfied. As in previous years, gift vouchers were also very frequently sold."