Festive season can take its toll

CHRISTMAS is a time for joy, but for many shoppers it can also be filled with dread.

Two-thirds of people say shopping for certain loved ones leaves them in fear of being unable to find the perfect gift. The research by David Jones shows 30 per cent of people find shopping for their partner the hardest, while 20 per cent say adult children cause them angst.

About 22 per cent of people find their mother hard to shop for while dads and also teenagers leave 19 per cent of people stumped.

The research also shows one in five Australians leave their festive preparations until work is over for the holidays.

Retailers are braced for shoppers to swamp their stores this weekend in the last-minute rush before Christmas Day.

Roy Morgan have predicted Australian shoppers will spend more than $50 billion in retail stores over the Christmas trading period from November 15 to December 24.

But Australian Retailers Association Executive Director Russell Zimmerman said shoppers don’t have to splurge to score last-minute perfect gifts, with retailers offering many bargain buys for under $50.

“There’s so many options out there for consumers these days. With new gadgets for your phone like selfie sticks, personalised phone covers and tripods, Christmas is a time for Australians to get friends and family members those little gifts that count,” Mr Zimmerman said.

“Scented candles, keep cups and cosmetic gift packs are great little stocking stuffers for Aussie shoppers ... books are also a great Christmas gift.”