Average budget for Christmas celebrations in Europe 2019, by country

UK consumers can pride themselves on having the biggest Christmas budget in Europe. According to the 2019 results of Deloitte’s annual Christmas shopping survey, Christmas expenditure per household placed the UK ahead of seven other countries in Europe with an estimated budget of 639 euros, or 567 British pounds.

First giving, then feasting.

As was the case in 2018, gifts were expected to make up the majority of Christmas spending of UK consumers in 2019. Travel expenses accounted for only a small share in Christmas plans, yet this category still saw an increase of 11 British pounds on the previous year’s spending figures.

What will Christmas bring for the UK?

This lavish Christmas spending behavior not only distinguishes the UK consumers among their European counterparts, but also pumps lifeblood into retail industry in the last quarter of the year. Typically, November and December see the most heightened activity in retail sector. Yet the growth graphic of UK retail during the Christmas period has been far from cheery in 2018 with flat results. In 2019, considering the ongoing Brexit uncertainties and a surprise snap election, UK retailers have every reason to stay apprehensive about Christmas sales.