RETAIL update

1. RETAIL update TV Retail Spend by Month • Retail Ad Spend in 2011 was worth £1.6 billion in the UK. • TV and Press take the most share of Retail Ad spend (40% each) • TV Ad spend peaks across Easter and Nov-Dec. • 36% of Retail spend on TV is during Oct-Dec. • Christmas 2012 and Beyond: • Retail Sales forecast to be up 3% in Dec 2012 (a conservative estimate). • There is a rising importance of Online Xmas shopping – especially among 25-44’s. • The Olympics exceeded expectations and has led to a considerable boost to the feel-good factor. • The income squeeze is lessening and consumers are noticeably more confident. Unemployment is also falling. • However, Retail may not be the main beneficiary of any sustained upturn. Consumers have cut back most on leisure and will want to restore that aspect of their lifestyles first. Trend Update: Maximising Purchases ‘We have become a nation of maximisers, ultra price-sensitive and retail-savvy consumers who are willing to expend considerable time and energy tracking down the most competitive offer. ‘ 60% of shoppers have used a comparison service in last 6 months. 50% regularly review their financial services products. Shared maximising is growing – 50% say they share tips on saving money.