Overview
- An HDE poll finds only 22% of German retailers satisfied with recent trading while 58% are dissatisfied, indicating the season has yet to gain momentum.
- Regional results diverge: Berlin shops reported solid takings on a shopping Sunday, whereas nearby Brandenburg and parts of Thuringia described weaker demand.
- Baden‑Württemberg retailers say many customers are browsing rather than buying, with key purchases expected closer to Christmas.
- Demand is holding up for vouchers, toys, consumer electronics and sports gadgets, even as low‑cost platforms such as Temu and Shein increase competitive pressure.
- Industry forecasts point to roughly 1.5% nominal growth for November–December, and in Austria retailers highlight an extra shopping day on December 8 with permitted opening from 10:00 to 18:00.