SA Consumers are spending more this festive season

"There is a growing tide of demand in Game stores for big-ticket high-tech goods, such as plasma and rear projection TVs, home theatre systems, DVD recorders and domestic appliances - including a refrigerator with a built-in TV.

"Two interesting trends which we have picked up early in the festive buying season, is a strong move towards component home theatre systems - as opposed to box systems - and increasingly intense interest in stainless steel domestic appliances, which are now within reach of many who previously couldn't afford them.

"Demand for digital cameras and camcorders is massive this season - to the extent that they have stimulated the whole photographic market, which is now growing above inflation," says Nothnagel.

"Customers shopping for Christmas products are spending up, with sales of trees at R800 to R900 commonplace - whereas, in past years they were the exception. On this front, an interesting new trend is that more and more South Africans are going the American way and buying outdoor Christmas lights for their gardens - particularly in Cape Town," he adds.

In the jewellery department, says Game's merchandise director, Tyrone Vieira, body jewellery this year is 'in', with belly and toe rings top of the pops.

"On the toy scene, Bratz dolls are the biggest single area of focus - to the extent that Barbie is now facing the real threat of losing her long-held throne," says Vieira.