Chamber News
Black Friday provides welcome boost for Scottish retailers
15 December 2022 • Sarah Medcraf
Black Friday came to the rescue of Scottish retailers last month as shoppers sought seasonal bargains, according to an industry report.
The Scottish Retail Consortium (SRC) found total sales in Scotland increased year-on-year by 8%.
However, it stressed that a portion of the growth reflected rising prices rather than increased volumes.
Food sales rose 12.5%, while non-food was boosted by sales of colder-weather clothing and early Christmas gifting.
SRC deputy head Ewan MacDonald Russell said sales rose by 0.6% in real terms as consumers took advantage of the "plethora of deals" around Black Friday.
He said: "In contrast to last year where Christmas shopping happened earlier, it appears consumers were waiting for November promotions and discounting to galvanise them into shops.
"These figures will give retailers a smidgen of hope as we enter December's make-or-break trade.
"However, that optimism is heavily tempered by the reality that household incomes remain significantly squeezed under the pressure of rising food and energy bills."
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