STORY:
Half Of All Britains Staying Home NYE

Survey cites high prices, travel concerns, and lack of babysitters

Half of Britains participating in a survey say they are planning to stay home New Year's Eve and will put the money they saved by going out into a home party. The survey conducted by a British research firm for British retailer Selfridges also cited the anticipated high costs of going out on the town as one of the major reasons people are staying home. Other concerns were possible Y2K complications with travel and the high cost of babysitters for New Year's Eve.

The survey says giving gifts on New Year's Eve is last on the list because respondents would have been tapped out from Christmas a week earlier. If gifts are given, the respondents reportedly say they would be presents for hostess or commemorative gifts for grand children.

Most respondents thought they would spend less on Christmas decorations and more on special New Year's decorations. Most expect to spend more on home deliveries, flowers, ready-made party food and wines.

According to press reports, Selfridges says the survey results indicate there will be a larger demand for champagne flutes, candles, cameras, indoor fireworks, gold and silver decorations, party games, CD's and evening wear. It just so happens, Selfridges carries all these items.

Source: London Evening Standard

DATE: 08/04/99

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