Shortly before Christmas, the German retail trade is running out of steam. This is the result of a survey by the German trade association. This is good news for consumers. FOCUS online says where prices will fall after Christmas and what you should buy in January.
For several weeks, the German retail trade has been happy about ringing cash registers and increasing sales. But in the third week of Advent and before the fourth Advent, the trade ran out of breath. This is the result of a recent survey by the German Retail Association (HDE).
The Christmas business lost momentum in the important week of Advent before the fourth Advent. “The development of sales and customer frequency fell short of the expectations of many retailers,” says HDE General Manager Stefan Genth.
Around 400 retailers were asked how satisfied they are with the Christmas business so far. About a quarter said they were satisfied. So it’s not half. The sobering conclusion of the HDE: “There were no highlights. With the ongoing pandemic and the effects of the energy crisis, the framework conditions are extremely difficult,” says Genth.
The HDE expects a total turnover of 120 billion euros for the months of November and December 2022. Adjusted for price, this corresponds to a severe loss of minus four percent compared to the previous year.
The shopping slump in November and December can now become interesting for consumers.
After the high-volume Christmas business, the big sale begins every year. Shortly before the new spring collection, many retailers make room in the warehouse and sell off the winter goods. Because business has been sluggish in many places, consumers can hope for many bargains. In some cases, discounts of up to 60 percent are possible.
Consumers can save at
If you want to save more money, you should use vouchers, bonus cards or memberships with retailers. In many cases, this further reduces the discounted price.
Chocolate, sweets, wine and champagne are also cheap from January. Prices had risen sharply here in November.
In January and February it is also worth investing in summer goods. Suitcases, bathing suits, bicycle accessories and garden furniture are cheap during these months. Prices will increase sharply from April.
Most insured persons in the statutory health insurance companies have to pay significantly more from January. The additional contribution increases and at the same time the contribution assessment limit is raised – but your health insurance company no longer has to tell you personally. That’s why we do this.
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