While the Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted the plans of so many during 2020, there’s one day that almost looked the same as every other year – and the sense of normality was gratefully received.
Boxing Day sales are a timeless treat for avid shoppers, with many heading out bright and early to queue up and prepare themselves for a day of bagging the best deals.
And although shopping looks a little different this year, footfall was still heavy across north and west Cumbria on December 26 – to the delight of the county’s traders.
In Carlisle, The Lanes Shopping Centre saw plenty of excited visitors ready to splash their Christmas cash.
“It started off quiet this morning, but it’s picked up during the day, and it’s great to see people still wanting to come out to the shops, especially on Boxing Day,” marketing executive, Jemima Elgey, said.
“I think because people haven’t been able to go on holiday or treat themselves to nights out and things like that, they’re really wanting to go out and do some shopping, and just have that sense of normality.
“Boxing Day shopping really is almost like tradition now, so to have that little slice of normality during this very strange time is really great.”
She added: “We at Lanes would like to say a massive thank you to everybody for supporting our shopping centre, and all our retailers and staff for pulling together and being so positive.
“We would definitely encourage everybody to come to Lanes – we’ve ensured it’s safe for all our shoppers to visit, and having a shopping trip and making a day of it is such a nice way to restore a bit of normality in these trying times.”
And things are just as heartwarming out west, with many heading out on their annual December 26 shopping trip.
Donald Dixon, owner of Dixon’s Department Store in Whitehaven and Dunmail Park, Workington, said: “We’ve been quite happy with the business we’ve had so far.
“Boxing Day trade usually depends on which day it falls on – last year it was a Thursday, so there was a bit more time for people to come out and shop, so we were a bit concerned with it being sandwiched between two non-working days this year.
“But today’s gone quite well, and felt quite like a normal Boxing Day, and we’re hoping to see even more people coming out on Monday for the ‘real’ Boxing Day.”
As well as the personal in-store experience offered by the team, click-and-collect and online shopping is also available, ensuring all who wish to treat themselves post-Christmas can do so while out-and-about and from the comfort of their living room.
Mr Dixon added: “We’re very grateful to our customers, and for the support – it keeps local people in jobs, which is the most important thing.”
Supporting the high street isn't just important over the festive season, with many stores offering special discounts and unique items all year-round.
So before heading online to shop to hunt for a treat for yourself or a loved one, why not head out on a trip to the shops instead – and make a local trader's day that bit better!
Share