Percentages on almost everything: “Black Friday” attracted many Styrians to the shopping centers and shopping streets on Friday. Despite inflation, the sector is looking forward to the upcoming Christmas activities with hope; an initial balance sheet shows an upturn.
Years ago, ‘Black Friday’ was still a ridiculous American myth, but today it has long since become a reality for retailers in Styria. “Almost everyone participates,” says division chairman Gerhard Wohlmuth. “Last year we had a turnover of 65 million euros – this year we expect more because customers are more likely to look for discounts.”
Due to high inflation, every euro counts. “Black Friday” is therefore also a harbinger of the Christmas business. The campaigns are now spread over several days: “Many retailers are holding an entire ‘Black Week’,” says Edith Münzer, head of the Murpark shopping center. There were still no large crowds Friday morning. However, in the afternoon things looked different; many Styrians ended their week with a bargain hunt; the rain drove them to the malls.
Decorations, sweets and books are in high demand
“The Christmas activities will really start from the middle of next week. “Customers are price sensitive, but people treat themselves to gifts – it’s like going on holiday,” says Münzer. According to a study by SME Research, every Styrian spends 290 euros on Christmas presents – that is 20 euros less than last year. Business is currently picking up nicely in the decoration, candy and book sectors, says Münzer, while in the textile sector we are still waiting for the first snow and temperatures below freezing.
When it comes to electronics, customers are literally waiting for the promotions, says Markus Weber, director of Media Markt in Liebenau. However, there are no longer extreme campaigns where customers stormed the stores at five in the morning. “That stopped with Corona.” But: “If you don’t participate, the customer will leave – competition is especially fierce online.” Game consoles for young and old, small kitchen appliances and drones are very popular for Christmas.
An initial evaluation on Friday afternoon confirmed that expectations were exceeded in many places. “Very satisfying,” says Weber. “It looks very good,” Münzer summarizes.
How much is the salary increase?
For store employees, the promotional days mean one thing above all: a lot of work. According to the Chamber of Commerce, 73,000 people, mainly women, live in Styria. Negotiations are currently underway about how much her salary increase will be. “We are in a difficult stalemate because there is no offer on the table yet,” said Christian Jammerbund of the private workers’ union.
In any case, you want to compensate for inflation of almost ten percent. “This year is a tough test for us as a union. We will be contacting the sellers directly in the coming weeks to apply pressure.” There will probably be no results before the beginning of December.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
