UPDATE: Perth shoppers are flooding into the city today, December 26, 2023, as Boxing Day sales ignite a frenzy at Karrinyup Shopping Centre and CBD locations. At 8 AM, bargain hunters rushed through the doors, eager to grab the best deals, with an estimated 100,000 people expected to visit Karrinyup alone.
By midday, both the Perth CBD and DFO Perth were bustling, filled with crowds looking to save big. Karrinyup Shopping Centre General Manager Trudy Cook noted that last year’s turnout was 85,000, and this year’s numbers are projected to be even higher. “It’s under so much management control… we’ve got all our teams in place,” said Cook, emphasizing the center’s readiness for the shopping surge.
Among the shoppers were Jobe Henderson and Remy Noack, who braved a 30-minute wait at the popular Peter Alexander store, drawn by TikTok trends and the demand for matching sleepwear sets. “It was crazy,” Noack remarked, reflecting the high energy and excitement of the day.
The sales frenzy extends beyond Karrinyup, with other hot spots like JB Hi-Fi and the newly opened Victoria’s Secret attracting long lines and eager shoppers. “Despite the steep prices, I was happy with my purchase,” said Dominie Vacca, a 17-year-old excited about her haul from the flagship store, which opened just two weeks ago.
Traffic congestion was reported around DFO Perth, with traffic controllers managing the heavy flow of shoppers. Nationally, the Australian Retailers Association forecasts that Australians will spend approximately $1.6 billion on Boxing Day sales, with overall spending expected to exceed $3.82 billion from Christmas to December 31.
Chris Rodwell, CEO of the Retailers Association, highlighted the enduring appeal of the Boxing Day shopping experience, stating, “Retailers are finishing the year on solid footing.” He predicts that consumer behavior will continue to prioritize competitive prices and promotions well into 2026.
Federal Minister Patrick Gorman also addressed the slow start in the CBD, where only a handful of shoppers were seen waiting outside department stores at 8 AM. “I acknowledge that our economy is changing,” Gorman stated, expressing confidence that the CBD will fill up as the day progresses. He underscored the importance of protecting penalty rates for retail workers, which supports millions of Australians.
Research from digital payment platform PayPal reveals that 82% of Australians intend to shop online during this post-holiday period, with fashion and accessories leading the pack. “Taking simple steps like sticking to trusted sites can help shoppers feel more confident online,” said PayPal consumer expert Danielle Grant.
As the day unfolds, shoppers are encouraged to take full advantage of the ongoing sales, with many retailers expected to extend promotions throughout the week. With excitement in the air and deals to be had, today is shaping up to be one of the busiest shopping days of the year in Perth.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops, and make sure to share your Boxing Day experiences!
