CCPC Warns Shoppers to Plan Ahead as 1 in 5 Expect to Borrow for Christmas Spending

Irish consumers expect to spend an average of €1,163 this Christmas, according to new research published today, 2 December 2025, by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC). The figure is broadly in line with last year’s spend of €1,177, signalling a cautious but steady approach as households prepare for the festive season.

The CCPC is advising shoppers to plan carefully, check the true cost of credit before borrowing, and think twice before buying gift vouchers, as new data shows many vouchers from last Christmas remain unused.

Almost two thirds of consumers, 63 per cent, received at least one gift voucher last Christmas. However, 22 per cent of those vouchers have still not been redeemed.

Grainne Griffin, CCPC Director of Communications, said:

“Vouchers are incredibly popular but if they’re not used, they’re a waste of money. We encourage consumers to use gift vouchers as soon as possible and, if you are thinking of giving one this year, consider whether the person might prefer cash. It comes with fewer terms and conditions.”

The research shows that overall spending patterns remain largely unchanged from 2024. The average planned spend of €1,163 represents a decrease of €14. Those aged 45 to 54 expect to spend the most at €1,465, while consumers in the ABC1 social group expect to spend €1,360 compared with €1,056 among the C2DE group. Regional differences are clear, with 32 per cent of Dubliners planning to spend more than last year, compared with 23 per cent outside the capital.

Households with children anticipate significantly higher costs at €1,601 on average, compared with €995 for those without children.

Grainne Griffin said:

“Consumers appear to be taking a sensible approach to Christmas spending. While costs have risen, most do not intend to spend any more than they did last year.

That said, it is easy for spending to get out of control, and price increases can hit particularly hard at this time of year. We advise consumers to plan carefully. List everything you will need to spend money on, look at your sources of income, and check how many paydays you have left. If your savings and wages will not cover the cost, consider where you may be able to cut back.”

One in five consumers, 19 per cent, plan to borrow to fund Christmas costs. Most of those intend to use a credit card. The survey also found that a quarter of people who save for Christmas begin between July and September, while two in five save throughout the year. Three quarters of women begin their Christmas shopping before December, compared with half of men.

Grainne Griffin said:

“It is good to see that borrowing levels have not increased on last year, but many people still end up paying more than they need to by using the wrong type of credit. Credit cards are only a good option if you can clear the balance fully in January. Otherwise, they can be one of the most expensive forms of borrowing. If you need to borrow, consider a personal loan from a bank or credit union and avoid moneylenders.

Ideally, you should aim to clear the cost of Christmas by Easter or, at the latest, by summer, so you’re not paying for last year when you start thinking about the next one.”

The research also highlights the continued use of Buy Now Pay Later services. Seven per cent of 25 to 34 year olds plan to use BNPL for Christmas expenses, compared with 3 per cent of consumers overall.

Ms Griffin said:

“We are glad to see that overall BNPL usage appears low, but many more people may use it without planning to. BNPL options are presented at checkout across a wide range of retailers and can be very tempting. It is borrowing, and missed payments incur fees that can mount up quickly. It can become a lot of hassle for something that seems convenient at first.”

The CCPC is encouraging consumers to take time to review their budgets, understand the full cost of borrowing, and make informed decisions in the run up to Christmas.