Stuttgart (dpa / lsw) – Retailers in Baden-Württemberg are rejoicing over the 4th Saturday in Advent. According to information from the Baden-Württemberg Retail Association (HBW) on Sunday in Stuttgart, business was better than on any other Advent weekend this year. “On average, the dealers were able to increase their sales again compared to the previous weeks and, according to our survey, are mostly satisfied with the shops,” said Sabine Hagmann, HBW general manager. However, earnings remained stretched due to skyrocketing energy prices and high inflation.
According to a survey by the trade association, the increase in sales was 81 percent compared to the third Saturday in Advent. Compared to the previous year, a significant increase in sales was achieved on this Saturday. “This proves this year’s trend towards late gift-buying and a slight recovery in consumer sentiment due to government support,” it said in a press release.
Traders are optimistic about the last week until Christmas Eve. A good 45 percent of those surveyed expect an increase in customer frequency and sales by Christmas Eve. “It is still the case that many consumers have yet to buy a gift,” said Hagmann.
