An independent greeting card retailer in Peterborough has revealed that Christmas card sales have slumped by 22% week-on-week compared to last year, attributing the steep decline to rising living expenses and soaring postage costs—first-class stamps now cost £1.70—making cards more expensive than stamps themselves. store owner John Bird noted that excess festive stock remains unsold as customers delay purchases due to budget concerns, and increased competition from online sellers and digital e-cards is exacerbating the decline. While some optimism remains—another local shop expects to shift 75% of its stock in the final run-up to Christmas—the industry faces ongoing pressure from changing consumer habits and economic constraints.
BBQ - What is the future of Christmas Cards?
