Retail Week has been to visit the two retailers to discuss their festive strategies as they kick start the hotly-contested battle for Christmas spend.

Selfridges was first out of the blocks this year as it bids to capitalise on the golden quarter with a “unique” retro theme running through its proposition, while Fortnum & Mason has gone for a more traditional approach to the season with a combination of precious metals and Victorian decorations and party games. 

We speak to Selfridges Christmas home and decorations buyer Geraldine James and Fortnums hampers, Christmas and stationery buyer Joe Guest to find out how they are gearing up for the crucial trading period.