A survey has shown six out of 10 retailers are expecting an improvement, or at least a similar level of business this December compared to last year.
Retail Excellence Ireland has surveyed 173 companies ahead of the festive period. The participants have more than 1,550 stores around the country.
The group said that although the upcoming budget and wintry weather would have a "significant influence" on trading, it was clear retailers are becoming bullish about their future prospects.