by Nina Vaclavikova
Italy’s winter sales have begun across the country and in Friuli Venezia Giulia on January 3 and will run through March 31, a long discount season aimed at reviving retail after months of weak demand.
Consumer group Consumatori Attivi expects sales to remain in line with last year’s levels, noting that inflation continues to erode household purchasing power, even though it is lower than in previous years. The group urged shoppers to verify original prices and discounts and to be especially careful with online purchases.
Retailers are counting on the sales to extend the modest rebound seen over the Christmas period. Alessandro Tollon, head of Confcommercio Federmoda Udine, said late-year shopping improved, helped in part by tourists, especially from Austria. National estimates put average family spending at about €303.
Retailers view the sales as a crucial boost for both commerce and urban shopping districts, helping move inventory while attracting shoppers and visitors seeking discounted, quality goods.
