In an article in The Age recently, Andrew Charlton a managing director at Accenture, adjunct professor at Macquarie University and co-director of the e61 Institute for economic research warned Christmas shoppers, “You’re already late”. He went on to explain:
“From the factory to the shop floor, supply chain blockages are threatening to create Christmas chaos for consumers. While we are unlikely to see swathes of empty shelves, Australian shoppers will need to think differently about Christmas this year.
Rule 1: It is bricks not clicks this year. Shopping online to beat the crowds used to be the smart move, but it might be wiser to shop in person this year. If you see something on the shelf, you should grab it rather than risk production gaps and shipping delays.
Rule 2: Buy local. Many imported products, especially specialty products, might be harder to find this Christmas. Think about putting Tasmanian whiskey on the table instead of the Scottish stuff. In fact, 70 per cent of Australian consumers plan on buying more local products in the next six to 12 months.
Rule 3: Shop small. Bulkier goods are most likely to be caught in the global shipping fracas. A better bet this year might be smaller gifts and gadgets carried by air freight.
Rule 4: Expect to pay more. The strains on global supply chains have pushed up prices for shipping, trucking, warehousing and labour. Inflation is taking off around the world. In Australia, retailers will be looking to pass on the extra costs to consumers, which means this Christmas will be expensive. Shoppers will need to budget for higher prices and fewer discounts.
Rule 5: Start early. Australia Post is warning that delivery times may be extended this year. Many shops will sell out of items quickly. Almost one in two Australian consumers will be shopping earlier than usual.
And if all else fails, blame Santa. The marvel of modern freight logistics has been making that guy look good for years. It’s time he took some of the heat.”
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