High-street retailers treat shoppers to early Boxing Day sales

High-street giants have launched their annual Boxing Day sales early, following a difficult year for retailers.

Twice as much money was spent on Boxing Day than Black Friday last year, while the period between Christmas Day and New Year generated £12 billion in sales, according to ShopperTrak.

Many retailers have been running significant sales in the run-up to Christmas, with Debenhams offering up to 50% off some items ahead of its traditional Boxing Day sale, which starts online and in stores on December 26.

John Lewis started its clearance online at 5pm on Christmas Eve, with reductions on homewares and electrical products. Its stores in the Trafford Centre, Heathrow and St Pancras are set to open on Boxing Day but most shoppers will have to wait until December 27 to browse the shops for a bargain.

Boxing Day deals at Marks & Spencer will go live online at midnight on Christmas Day, with the high-street stalwart offering up to 50% off for shoppers last year.

Supermarkets also announced sales during the festive period, with Sainsbury’s advertising reductions on electrical items from December 23.

Argos is set to start its sale online on Christmas Day, with discounts expected on everything from children’s toys to iPads. Bargain hunters will also find reduced tech items at Currys PC World, which is due to slash prices on Boxing Day.

Online retailers including eBay and Amazon are also set to delight shoppers with reduced prices on Boxing Day, offering a wave of discounts.