TRADE NEWS Clothing spending falls early Government agencies 'should be more proactive' CBI asks mayor candidates to support firms Growth is 'main problem for new retailers' No need to be wary online, say experts Minimum wage hike could affect retail employment Retailers should update websites regularly BRC expects victory in Visa investigation UK to spend £8bn over Easter Retail slows in Scotland Easter sales moving online Pet clothing retail growing Niche retailers should sell their benefits to landlords London retail sales up on 2006 Weak high street sees profits drop for French Connection Older consumers well informed about online security Government could bring in carrier bag legislation British take-up of fair-trade highlights importance of ethical retailing Dragons' Den entrepreneur to help launch academy Economic downturn could hit retailers hard Sales continue sluggish performance into February Shoppers opting for green retailers Independent retailers fear bad news budget User-generated content could be the key to online independent retailers Shopping centres urged to rethink consumer perceptions UK shoppers lead the way for online continental spending Consumers reveal interest in ethical trading BRC urge bank to make cuts to help retailers Asda pledge to remove disposable carrier bags CBI calls on Darling to cut tax on retailers New retailers agree Grand Arcade leases Defra unveil new packaging targets ISPs should be more accountable for online counterfeit goods sales Retailers reject government plastic bag claims Counterfeit goods harming retail industry Archive March trade news 2008 February trade news 2008 January trade news 2008   20th March 2008   UK to spend £8bn over Easter UK shoppers are expected to spend £8 billion on Easter this year, an increase of three per cent on 2007, estimates the British Retail Consortium (BRC). It is believed that food and drink spending will make up £4.2 billion over Easter week, more than £500 million more than would be spent in an average week. The popularity of Easter trimmings is also rising, with increased spending anticipated on greeting cards, toys and decorations. However, the poor weather is likely to cause the sales of gardening and DIY equipment to be lower than last Easter - but could still be worth £3 billion. Stephen Robertson, BRC director general, said: "With personal finances under pressure and evidence that customers are cutting back on non-essentials, retailers are eager for the Easter boost." Mr Robertson also called the early Easter "a mixed blessing", with sales helping retailers, but the poor weather reducing the amount that will be taken. Fairtrade products are expected to do well over the holidays. Demand for Fairtrade chocolate products has risen by 41 per cent, with a range of Easter eggs being launched to capitalise on increased customer awareness.     (c) 2008 Adfero Ltd.   Subscribe to The Wholesaler UK regular newsletter featuring trade news, suppliers offers and trade show reminders. . . Return to The Wholesaler UK directory