The post-Christmas sales season officially kicks off today, offering Czech shoppers discounts on electronics, clothing, cosmetics, and more in brick-and-mortar stores and online. The sales will run until the end of January, with many retailers expecting higher revenues than last year. The period will also see a surge in customer returns of unsuitable Christmas gifts. According to Shoptet, a provider of e-commerce solutions, 85% of e-shops are participating in post-Christmas sales this year, up from 80% last year. Discounts are expected to average 45%, slightly higher than in previous seasons. “Retailers could see up to 25% more sales this year compared to last year. The duration of the sales will depend on how quickly they manage to sell out their stock,” said Shoptet CEO Samuel Huba. Major retailers such as Alza, Globus, and Tesco have already launched their sales. Alza anticipates strong post-Christmas demand, building on robust pre-Christmas sales. “We expect a year-on-year increase in sales, particularly in categories like sports equipment, driven by New Year’s resolutions,” said spokeswoman Eliška Čeřovská. Tesco plans a second wave of sales starting January 6, expanding discounts to include toys and household items. Some retailers began their sales earlier, with e-shop Ovečkárna offering discounts since Monday and expecting double-digit growth compared to last year. Alpine Pro, which started its winter range discounts on December 19, is more cautious, citing weather conditions as a factor influencing demand. “We are adapting to trends with collections focused on active lifestyles,” said company representative Barbora Vacková. Retailers are also preparing for an influx of returns, with most unsuitable gifts being exchanged before the end of the year. Returns typically account for about 1% of total sales, according to Huba. The Czech Trade Inspection Authority has been monitoring compliance with discount regulations under an amendment to consumer protection laws introduced last year. In the second quarter, inspectors found violations in 41% of 259 inspections. The law requires retailers to base discounts on the lowest price offered in the 30 days preceding the sale, ensuring transparency for consumers. Retail sales in the Czech Republic have been on the rise, with October marking the 11th consecutive month of year-on-year growth. Sales increased by 5.5% in October, following a revised 4.8% growth in September. E-commerce has been a key driver, maintaining double-digit growth rates throughout the year. With increased participation in post-Christmas sales and strong consumer demand, retailers are optimistic about closing the year on a high note and setting the stage for continued growth in 2025. Source: CTK