Thousands of shoppers hit north-east high streets and malls yesterday in the hope of snapping up a bargain in the Boxing Day sales.
Queues formed outside a number of stores across Aberdeen from as early as 5am.
Managers at Union Square confirmed that December has been busier than ever with a 9% rise in footfall over the festive period.
General manager Ryan Manson said: “It has been a really busy Boxing Day in the centre, with some shoppers queuing from just after 5am to snap up some of the fantastic deals on offer at Next.
“Traditionally, clothes and footwear are popular items. However, Aberdonians have also been taking advantage of the Boxing Day deals on gadgets, phones, homeware and toys.
“Our Christmas trading has been very strong, with a 9% rise in footfall from December 21 to 24, compared to the same period last year.
“Boxing Day sales are a great way to get value for money.”
Mr Manson said Zara, Original Penguin, Outfit, Marks and Spencer, Sony Centre and H&M had all been popular shopping destinations for those looking for clothing, footwear and beauty products.
One shopper, Stacey Robertson, 24, queued outside Next from 5am in order to secure working wardrobe for next year.
She said: “I love the Next sale as it means I can basically get myself everything I need for work for the next year for better than half price.
“You have to be quick and queue, though, in order to ensure you get everything in your size. I also managed to get a few bits and pieces for my nieces’ and nephews’ birthdays which are coming up soon. I couldn’t think of a better way to spend Boxing Day.”
There were similar scenes at the city’s Bon Accord and St Nicholas centres.
Colin Birtwistle, operations manager for both centres, said: “There has been a really good shopping buzz about the place.
“With the Next sale starting at 6am this morning, we had people queuing to get in right the way around the mall.”
He said staff were expecting the rush to continue today with the start of the John Lewis clearance sale at 8am.
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