News

New research published today by LINK, the UK’s cash access and ATM network, shows that more than one-in-four (26%) of UK adults who celebrate Christmas and plan to buy gifts this year say that they completed all of their Christmas shopping before Black Friday.

Looking at spending habits in the run up to Christmas, LINK’s research shows:

• Over a quarter of UK adults who celebrate Christmas and plan to buy gifts this year (26%) wrap up their Christmas shopping before Black Friday, avoiding the festive rush. Nearly half (48%) prefer to spread purchases throughout December, with only 7% leaving it to the final few days, although younger shoppers (under-25s) are more likely (10%) to cut it fine.
• Debit cards remain the go-to choice for most shoppers (60%), with credit cards close behind (35%). Mobile payments using a digital wallet (26%) and Buy Now Pay Later (10%) are increasingly popular among younger adults (19% 25-34). 17% will pay using cash.
• When it comes to where UK adults who celebrate Christmas are choosing to do their shopping, online-only retailers (e.g. Amazon, Temu) dominate (57%), followed by shopping centres (48%) and high-street independents (46%). This split is seen clearest amongst age groups, with over-55s (52% and 51%) still heading to high streets and shopping centres, while younger adults lean towards online platforms and second-hand marketplaces for bargains.
• Despite digital trends, cash remains important, especially in Northern Ireland (28%) and Northeast England (26%). In fact, 41% of adults plan to carry a wallet or purse, and to have payment options (e.g. card and cash) for festive outings, from pub trips to Christmas markets.
• 5% of people who celebrate Christmas are thinking about giving or receiving a cryptocurrency as a gift for Christmas.
• With concerns about consumer confidence this year, it’s no surprise that 35% of people that celebrate Christmas are keeping a close eye on their festive spending, and 18% have set money aside over the year to cover costs. Yet, one in three (33%) say they have no financial worries when it comes to Christmas shopping.

Historically, the busiest day for cash machines on the LINK network was 22nd December 2017 when £766 million was withdrawn. LINK forecasts that the busiest day for cash machines in 2025 will be Christmas Eve as everyone stocks up with cash before the long four-day Christmas break. 

LINK expects almost £370m to be withdrawn in cash on the 24th December with an average withdrawal value of £124. 

LINK, Director of Strategy, Graham Mott: “Christmas is always a special time and for cash machines it is the busiest time of the year. As Christmas falls midweek, we’d expect Christmas Eve to be the busiest day.

“It’s interesting to know that so many people have already completed their shopping – but as ever – there’ll be quite a few of us leaving it until the last couple of days. The ATMs will be well stocked for last minute gifts.”