Hopes grow that a big final weekend could rescue Christmas for retailers
Retailers are preparing themselves for a make-or-break weekend as they face the final days of trading before Christmas.

Figures from shopper traffic monitor FootFall showed shopper traffic had risen 20 per cent week on week, but was still down 12.6 per cent year on year.

As Retail Week went to press on Wednesday, many retailers were feeling positive about the run-in to Christmas, particularly because the colder weather helped fashion retailers.

'It's looking very good for us at the moment,' said Asda director John Longworth. 'The sharp change in the weather has boosted clothing very substantially.'

Despite predictions of the worst Christmas in 25 years, many retailers expect this weekend will allow them to make up some lost ground.

Debenhams chief executive Rob Templeman said: 'Trading this week is about what we expected. This weekend is potentially one of the biggest weekends of the year. Saturday will be the best day.'

Analysts believe supermarkets with a strong non-food offer will profit as time-pressed shoppers look for last-minute items under one roof. Fashion, general merchandise retailers and smaller multiples across all sectors are likely to fare worst.

'This weekend will be make-or-break for retailers,' said Verdict chairman Richard Hyman. 'Saturday will be the biggest day.'

BRC director-general Kevin Hawkins said: 'Christmas is not going to be a bonanza, but it will be better than people expected.'

Two thirds of the British public believe the January Sales will be a damp squib this year, according to an ICM Poll conducted for Retail Week. Only a third are excited by the prospect.