Dialogos

Satisfactory Holiday Shopping in Cyprus – Rise in Online Purchases

Published January 1, 2026, 08:01
Satisfactory Holiday Shopping in Cyprus – Rise in Online Purchases

Holiday shopping in Cyprus was satisfactory, although some retailers had expected higher turnover. However, a further increase is expected in the coming days due to the discounts anticipated by consumers. The economically restrained behavior of consumers, combined with the growing popularity of e-commerce, influenced the market. According to the data, more than 6 out of 10 Cypriots aged 16-74 have made online purchases, with 76% now shopping online. The average frequency of purchases has increased from approximately 1.2 times/month in 2022 to 2 times/month in 2023. Increased use of e-commerce is linked to increased cross-border orders, due to Cypriots' reliance on international platforms. The Secretary-General of POVEK, Stefanos Koursaris, estimates that this year was better than previous years, with purchases mainly focused on essential goods. The change in weather and the drop in temperature also helped increase sales of clothing and footwear. Despite the price increases, consumers appear to be prioritizing holiday needs. In summary, the market during the holidays showed satisfactory activity, with the rise of e-commerce being a significant trend. Price increases affect consumer behavior, but the festive atmosphere and Cypriot mentality contributed to the mobilization of the market.