The UK’s high streets are bracing for a festive surge, with £1.13bn expected to be spent in-store today (23 December) as consumers rush to secure last-minute Christmas gifts.

According to VoucherCodes.co.uk’s Shopping for Christmas Report, retail sales — both online and in-store — are forecast to hit £1.46bn, a 6.6% rise compared to the same day last year.

Around 16 million shoppers are anticipated to hit the shops, with 12.6 million opting for physical stores and shopping centres.

VoucherCodes Senior Commercial Director Michael Brandy said: “With just hours to go until the big day, consumers are short on time and money, so offering convenience and genuine value will be the key to securing those final festive sales.”

Tuesday (Christmas Eve) is expected to be another major shopping day, with £1.31bn forecast to be spent — 17% higher than in 2023.

11.6 million people are expected to hit the high street in a last-minute dash for gifts and festive food, accounting for £1.08bn in sales.

Another £220m will be spent online, although with delivery cut-offs looming, most consumers will prioritise in-person purchases.

Brandy added: “This Christmas, consumers are leaving their shopping to the very last minute. This is good news for retailers who can expect sales to be up 17% compared to last year.”

VoucherCodes predicts that the momentum is set to continue into the Boxing Day sales, with £3.73bn predicted to be spent—the first post-Christmas sales rise in three years.

As cost-conscious shoppers hunt for bargains, retailers are expected to see increased footfall and online traffic.

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