Economy

€150m Christmas payday forecast for Irish retailers

By Business & Finance
18 December 2015
Christmas Dublin

Visa Europe has predicted that Wednesday, December 23rd is set to be the busiest in-store shopping day this Christmas for Irish retailers with consumers set to spend €150m with Visa cards.

With more than 2.6 million in-store transactions on the day, Irish cardholders will snap up the last of their Christmas shopping in Irish retail stores.

Visa reports that €1 in every €3 of Irish consumer spending now on a Visa card.

Conor Langford, Ireland country manager, Visa Europe, said: “Irish retailers will benefit from a last minute rush of shoppers who still have gifts and groceries to purchase for Christmas. The rise in spending reflects the increased level of consumer confidence and this will result in a vital boost for the retail sector at a crucial time of year.”

He continued: “The figures also highlight that the popularity of card payments in Ireland continues to grow, with consumers opting for the reliable, secure and convenient payment options offered by Visa. With the increasing popularity of contactless payments since the introduction of the new €30 payment limit, consumers are now also able to pay more quickly, spend less time in queues and enjoy their shopping this year this Christmas!”

Photo: William Murphy