Retailers pinning hopes on four-day Amazon bonanza

A FOUR-DAY Amazon Prime event is anticipated to see Britons splashing out £1.9bn, as consumers increasingly seek deals and discounts for their shopping.

- AMBER MURRAY

Retailers are optimistic that the discount extravaganza, which began yesterday, will provide a much-needed boost following a challenging first half of the year, and an opportunity to get a head start on what is predicted to be a difficult second half.

"There's little doubt that both shoppers and sellers are set to gain from the midsummer madness of Prime Day," said David Jinks, Parcelhero's head of consumer research.

If UK sales hit £1.9bn and US sales reach £20bn, this would signify a 60% year-on-year growth rate for the event.

"A strong event now might help to offset a bumpy second half of the year," Jinks added.