New research shows customers are planning their festive season purchases ahead and taking advantage of sales events. Australians estimate they’ll spend $427 on Christmas presents for their immediate family (up 13% from 2022), compared with $246 for extended family (up 30% from 2022), and $149 for friends (up 12% from 2022).
Mirvac Retail Centres are bringing Christmas to life with opportunities to celebrate from Santa photos with pets, twilight markets, breakfast with Santa, The Nutcracker ballet, free workshops and Santa’s Express – all part of A Wonder Full Christmas.
“A Wonder Full Christmas is about leaning into the traditional spirit of Christmas. Christmas will come to life at our centres with a sense of nostalgia, through bespoke characters and theming that reminds of us of special childhood Christmases and traditions,” Mirvac general manager – portfolio management for retail, Alison Flemming said.
Mirvac Retail’s A Wonder Full Christmas is rolling out across shopping destinations in Queensland, NSW, Victoria and the ACT with each centre hosting a festive program of events and activities tailored to their community, while supporting local charities, schools and organisations.
Orion Springfield Central (QLD) is hosting twilight Christmas markets on Friday 22 December, and The Nutcracker ballet on 23 December. Kawana Shoppingworld (QLD) is treating parents with free childminding movie days and nights, and hosting Mrs Claus photo and storytime sessions.
South Village (NSW) had Santa arrive for breakfast at 8am on Saturday 2 December, and personalised Christmas baubles for every purchase in the centre.
Rhodes Waterside (NSW) has launched an immersive Santa photo experience with a vintage train carriage on entry setting the scene to transport customers into the whimsical world of the Santa Express. There’s also a virtual reality Santa’s sleigh experience and letters to Santa.
East Village (NSW) will host Christmas carol singing live with a three-part harmony group and reindeer trio on various dates throughout December. Greenwood Plaza (NSW) ‘Self-Style Studio’ will be open throughout the festive season for customers to pop in and use GHD styling tools for free.
Broadway Shopping Centre (NSW) will host all ages Christmas workshops including wreath making, cookie decorating, Christmas bauble decorating and more.
At Moonee Ponds Central (VIC) customers can enjoy Christmas food demonstrations and sampling, story time with Santa and his elf and free face painting and balloon art.