Kiwis lifted spending on their credit, debit and charge cards last month, led by consumables such as food and liquor, and fuel.

It may still be only establishing itself on home turf but The Shopping Channel has already struck a deal to move into Australia.

Many people say it's London, Paris or Munich. But the most exciting shopping is in Bangkok. The air conditioned and squeaky-clean trains stop right at the entrance of the most important shopping complexes on the lively Sukhumvit and Rama I roads.

The chance to bring down a building, buy space on a woman's bottom and change someone's name were among the most-viewed Trade Me auctions of the year.

The future of the new Shopping Channel, launched with enormous fanfare this year, is in doubt.

New Year's resolutions are often difficult to stick to and require some upfront investment. But, as John Weekes reports, they can turn out to be money-spinners.

Retailers might be enjoying a post-Christmas spending bonanza, but an economist warns the sales boom can't last.

Shoppers took to the Boxing Day sales with gritted teeth yesterday, battling full carparks, queues and crowds to snap up bargains.

Festive lights, Christmas trees, a jolly Santa waving you in and carols can be the magic formula for retailers trying to lure shoppers in and seal a deal.

Consumers cutting loose after a year of watching their wallets is one reason for a huge increase in Christmas spending, according to the Retailers Association. Paymark said just over $3.2 billion went through its network between Nov 30 and Dec 20.

If you haven't sorted your Xmas selections yet you may be starting to panic about finding the perfect present for each person on your list. Go easy on yourself by simply buying a gift set.

As the first set of viewer ratings are released for the Shopping Channel, the company says it is more focused on how many people are buying than watching.

Retailers are in a Christmas sale free-for-all with only 15 days left to the 25th.

Stop! Before you hit the mall to buy Christmas gifts, get smart. Does your friend or family member really want another gift box, cook book, or car-cleaning kit?

If you're keen for a shopping fix overseas this holiday season here are the best streets around the world to fill up the suitcase with goodies.