New data from Kantar reveals that December 23 was the busiest shopping day of 2024, with consumers spending a record €107 million in just 24 hours.
This marks an increase of €11.9 million compared to the busiest trading day in 2023.
The four weeks leading up to December 29 saw take-home value sales rise by 4.4 per cent year-on-year, totaling nearly €1.4 billion, despite grocery price inflation of 3.6 per cent.
Irish shoppers made an average of 23 store visits in December, significantly higher than the UK’s 17 visits, as they stocked up on both Christmas essentials and indulgences.
Sales of branded products grew by 5.9 per cent, reflecting a willingness among consumers to spend more on quality and premium goods during the festive season.
Premium own-label products saw remarkable growth, surging by 10.5 per cent and outperforming the 3.2 per cent growth in overall own-label ranges.
Over the past 12 weeks, Irish consumers spent nearly €140 million on premium own-label lines, underlining their growing appeal.
Dunnes Stores emerged as the market leader, holding a 24.8 per cent share with sales growth of 6.9 per cent year-on-year.
Tesco followed closely with a 24.2 per cent market share and a 6.4 per cent increase in sales. Irish shoppers made 5.1 per cent more trips to Tesco, highlighting the retailer’s strong performance during the competitive holiday period.
SuperValu secured a 20.5 per cent market share, with sales growth of 3.2 per cent.