Rundle Mall retailers are gearing up for strong Christmas trading, with a forecast $86 million to be spent in the CBD over the next 10 days.
Stores will also open later Monday to Friday next week, with the state’s premier retail precinct trading until midnight on Thursday 21 December and Friday 22 December.
Andrew White, Executive Manager, Rundle Mall, at the Adelaide Economic Development Agency, says retailers are ready for a bigger than ever rush, with sales expected to rise 11 per cent compared to the same time last year.
“City spending in the 10 days prior to Christmas has been increasing year-on-year and we expect this year will be a record with sales reaching $86 million, which is a significant portion of the $4 billion South Australians are tipped to spend this festive season*,” Mr White said.
“Whether you’re a last-minute Larry, or you’ve just got a few gifts and stocking fillers to sort out, there’s still lots of shopping to do this Christmas which will see hundreds of thousands of people coming through Rundle Mall.”
To help customers tick of their lists, Mr White said Rundle Mall retailers would be open for longer and later in the lead up to Christmas Day.
“We all wish we had more time to get ready for Christmas and this year there’s an extra 24 hours of shopping time available,” he said.
“There are also a range of promotions and special offers on fashion, footwear, sporing goods and beauty available to help stretch the Christmas budget further, no mater who you’re buying for.”
Rundle Mall rebel store manager Corey Richards said backyard games, scooters, trampolines, footwear and Frank Green drink bottles were hot ticket items for Christmas shoppers.
“Gift ideas that have an intention and represent good value are proving to be really popular this year,” he said.
Rundle Mall retailers trading through until midnight include David Jones, Nike, rebel, Mecca, JD Spors, JB Hi-Fi, Kmar, QBD Books, Glue Store and Vodafone.
To help shoppers relax and recharge, Rundle Mall has created The Jingle Bar at the Gawler Place Canopy where shoppers can enjoy a drink over the next 10 days.
There will also be performances by the Australian Girls Choir, live music, roaming elves spreading mischief at the three giant Santas located in Rundle Mall and face painting to entertain shoppers and visitors.
“Whether you’re gift shopping for your partner, your mum, friends, or you’re bringing in the kids to discover the magic of The Santa Course, you’ll have plenty of time to embrace the holiday spirit in Rundle Mall this Christmas,” Mr White said.
Rundle Mall Christmas trading hours:
- Saturday 16 December – 9 am to 5 pm
- Sunday 17 December – 9 am to 5 pm
- Monday 18 December – 9 am to 9 pm
- Tuesday 19 December – 9 am to 9 pm
- Wednesday 20 December – 9 am to 9 pm
- Thursday 21 December – 9 am to midnight
- Friday 22 December – 9 am to midnight
- Saturday 23 December – 9 am to 5 pm
- Sunday 24 December – 9 am to 5 pm
For further information about events, retailers and trading hours, head here.