In the past two weeks, fiscal cash registers recorded a turnover of almost HRK 7.4 billion (€1 billion). Since the bulk of consumer consumption is concentrated in the second half of December, one can expect an additional HRK 12 billion in turnover, Večernji List daily said on Tuesday.
Last year’s extra holiday consumption was about HRK 1 billion, with fiscal receipts totaling HRK 15.8 billion.
According to the Tax Administration, last week Croatians spent 20% more on average than at the same time last year when the number of COVID-19 cases was comparable to this year but the restrictions were not.
At this time last year hospitality establishments were closed, which is why their turnover now when they are open, is four times higher. Retailers are recording a 10% increase.
Besides domestic consumers, tourists and Croatian citizens who work abroad, where COVID protocols are much stricter, could also contribute to consumption towards the end of the year. All of that, however, increases the risk of the epidemic spreading in January and the following months.
Christmas bonuses are also expected to contribute to increased spending. It is estimated that workers will get HRK 1.5 billion in Christmas bonuses and receive as much in the form of various other bonuses.
Most local governments will ensure Christmas bonuses of several hundred kuna for pensioners. All of this raises the amount of disposable income for Christmas and New Year’s spending to HRK 3 billion in relation to regular income, Večernji List said.
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