MILLIONS of dedicated bargain-hunters have braved freezing temperatures this morning – forming massive queues to secure post-Christmas Day deals.
Despite it being the day after Boxing Day mayhem, much of the country are still seeing large crowds gather outside shops.
Hundreds queued from 3am outside Next in North Shields this morning
Shoppers queuing in Cardiff this morning
Huge queues at North Shields’ Next
With many retail stores offering up to 50 per cent off items, Brits have scrambled to spend their Christmas money.
This morning in North Shields, eager shoppers arrived at 3am to get a spot in line for the Next sale.
Queuing in chilly conditions for three hours, shoppers flooded in when doors opened at 6am.
The retail giant postponed their huge markdowns until today so staff could have yesterday off.
With some lines reduced by 70 per cent, many thought the wait would be worth it.
An onlooker said: “These shoppers were desperate to bag a bargain.
“Some queued for hours from 3am just to be first in the door.
“For their sake, I hope it was worth it.”
Despite train strikes, millions have still flocked to their local stores.
Many are relying on their high street stores today to get their shopping fix.
In some parts, footfall has increased by 50 per cent, according to analysts Springboard.
Diane Wehrle, Springboard’s insight director, told the Daily Telegraph: “I was expecting around 15 per cent, but nothing like 50 per cent.
“So it is very surprising, but very encouraging.
“It demonstrates that when people can go out shopping they do.”
Amid the cost of living crisis, sale stats show retail therapy didn’t take such a hit.
John Lewis was closed yesterday but saw a rise in online sales with demand up from last year.
A spokesman said: “Our sale is already off to a really strong start online, with demand up on last year, and kicks off in our branches from December 27.
“Whether they’re upgrading their homes or their wardrobes, cost-conscious customers are making the most of our great deals to get 2023 off on the right foot.”
Many braved the Boxing Day sales yesterday.
Sophie Beaker, 25, from Brighton, drove into a South London suburb and caught the tube to Oxford Street before queuing to get into Selfridges.
She said: “I’m very excited. The Boxing Day sales are a great tradition and I haven’t been able to take advantage of them for a few years.
“I’ve got a list of things I want to get and I’m determined to get the best deals.
“London is the best city in the world for shopping and I can’t wait to get stuck in.
“My credit card is burning a hole in my pocket!”
Jeanie Tandina, 33, of Romford, Essex, snapped up discounted clothing at Westfield shopping centre in Stratford, East London.
She said: “The sales are one of the best things about Christmas.
“I’ll be shopping every day between now and the New Year, searching for deals.”
Queues in Liverpool this morning
