Weather Threat To 'Biggest Xmas Shopping Day'

It is predicted 15 million shoppers will hit stores in a 'manic Monday' rush for Christmas goodies, spending £2.6m a minute.

But the spending spree could fall short of retailers' expectations as a series of weather warnings threaten travel disruption and a windswept and soggy experience on high streets across the country.

Ahead of the downbeat weather forecast, a series of reports suggested that stores should prepare for their biggest day of the year as millions stock up on gifts, food, drink and decorations.

Shoppers were expected to part with about £3.6bn by the end of the day.

Visa expects to process 31 million transactions on UK cards with a peak between 1pm and 2pm as workers rush out to the shops on their lunch break.

Visa predicted an average £15,000 per second would be spent on its cards.

Many retailers have been furiously discounting prices over the past few days in a bid to attract shoppers amid signs of a slow start to the big festive spend.

While the prospect of bargains bodes well for consumers who left their shopping late, there are fears the price cuts will leave the retail sector with a profits hangover after a bruising battle for business during 2013.

Large promotions have included a 30% discount across clothing lines at Marks & Spencer, as well as price cuts at Debenhams, Gap, Argos and BHS.

John Lewis confirmed on Sunday it had enjoyed record weekly sales with takings hitting £164m - up 4.2% on the same period last year - though its customers tend to be less affected by the squeeze on incomes than the average consumer.

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