Retail trade in the lead-up to Christmas this year is expected to be 3.6% higher than 2014, however, trading remains mixed outside of urban areas.
The figures from Retail Excellence Ireland show Dublin and larger urban centres have experienced growth in excess of 5%.
Big-name retail brands have fared better than independent stores during the festive period, according to REI.
This is largely attributed to a significant surge in online sales, an opportunity that many independent stores would not have the infrastructure to avail of effectively.
In addition, many big brand retailers are located in shopping centres and retail parks, which were impacted less by inclement weather over the last three consecutive Saturdays as shoppers chose ‘one stop destination’ options.
REI said on-street retailers experienced a far quieter run-up to Christmas, with some flood-hit provincial towns reporting significantly reduced commercial activity.
The organisation added that there has been an exponential increase in online sales this year, which started with Black Friday and Cyber Monday last month.
Online activity has now dissipated but activity will recommence on Christmas Day when some retailers are expected to launch their online sales a day earlier than usual.
