The Boxing Day rush once again turned shopping centres into madhouses, with crowds flooding stores across Australia. Retailers have raked in billions as shoppers hunt for post-Christmas bargains. But while the country’s biggest brands celebrate record profits, many small and independent businesses are quietly being left behind.
Billions Spent, but Not by Everyone
Australians are expected to spend almost $3.83 billion between Christmas and New Year — up more than 4% compared to last year, according to national figures, reports ABC News. That surge might sound like good news for retail, but small business owners say they’re seeing little benefit.
Many independent store owners report a sharp drop in sales compared to December’s lead-up to Christmas. As consumers chase discounts and doorbuster deals, smaller stores that can’t match the huge markdowns are struggling to compete. For many, the post-holiday lull feels more like a warning sign than a celebration of strong retail spending.
Big retailers can afford to slash prices thanks to bulk purchasing power, but smaller shops rely on tighter margins and loyal customers. When those customers disappear after Christmas, the fallout can be devastating.
The Cost of Competing
Industry groups warn that discount-heavy shopping events like Boxing Day and Black Friday are becoming a double-edged sword. While they attract massive crowds, they also shift spending away from local shops that form the backbone of many communities. For smaller retailers, every markdown eats into already thin profits.
Some small business advocates argue that independent stores should focus on what large chains can’t easily replicate — a personal experience, a sense of authenticity, and a connection with local customers. Others say government support and community awareness campaigns could help level the playing field.
Consumers Chasing Convenience
One of the biggest challenges facing local retailers is the growing dominance of online shopping. Consumers are drawn to convenience, speed, and aggressive discounting — trends that make it hard for small businesses to compete. And while many people say they want to “shop local,” the reality at the checkout often tells a different story.
Still, not every independent store is struggling. Some niche retailers that focus on craftsmanship, specialty products, or unique experiences are managing to hold their ground. For them, loyalty and storytelling matter more than the price tag.
A Changing Retail Landscape
Experts say the gap between large chains and small retailers is widening. Unless consumers consciously choose to support local stores, more independent businesses could vanish from main streets and shopping strips. Beyond the economic impact, their disappearance would also mean losing the diversity and community character that small retailers bring.
The Boxing Day tradition will no doubt continue — but it raises a difficult question about who truly benefits. For now, it seems the big players are winning the sales race, while the smaller ones are left hoping shoppers will one day remember them again.
