The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is reporting a rapid increase in foot traffic and spending ahead of the Christmas rush.
Although it's already predicted a record breaking $46.8 million boom in the lead-up to Christmas, a 4.7% surge in apparel and a 4.0% increase in sales for department stores is now expected.
ARA executive director Russell Zimmerman believes we're already in the eye of the storm.
“The organised shoppers among us kick off their Christmas gift buying as early as November, but for the rest of us, the first three weeks in December, and especially the week before Christmas, is where we see the bulk of Christmas spending.
“Shoppers looking to beat the Christmas chaos at the shops are reminded to plan ahead as Christmas gets closer and to shop early and shop often to avoid disappointment.”
According to the ARA, Australian consumers will likely spend 3.6% more than 2014 between November 15-December 24.