Sydney, Australia – Australian mums and dads are increasingly looking for value and
quality as they prepare for back to school with new research showing parents are
expected to replace an average of 10 items per child in 2023.
BIG W’s annual Back to School Report reveals parents are savvier, looking to purchase
more combo and bulk packs, while one in five parents will have a child starting primary
school.
Families are also expected to replace 40 million school items 2 this year, with children set to lose, wear out or simply outgrow them.
Christine Faulkner, Head of Commercial for Toys and Leisure at BIG W, said the team
was focused on taking the stress out of school prep and ensuring parents get maximum
value for their money.
“Kids will be kids, and we’ve all experienced that missing lunchbox or part of a sports kit
suddenly disappearing. Not to mention the first school photos with that slightly oversized
uniform to grow into.
“And for many parents, it’s a hugely exciting and sometimes emotional time as their first
child enters the school gates.
“That’s why we’ve gone back to school ourselves and created a range of affordable and
durable school supplies with everything from uniforms, shoes, school bags, lunch boxes,
water bottles and stationery. We are confident that families can get all their back to school
essentials for under $200.”
Surveying Aussie parents of kids aged 5-17 years on their evolving back to school shopping
behaviours and spending habits, the Back to School Report found the vast majority (97%)
of parents are replacing 10 items on average per child during a year. The most commonly
replaced items include:
● School shoes (83%)
● School uniform items (80%)
● Sports shoes (74%)
● Sports uniforms (64%)
● Drink bottles (64%)
● Lunchboxes (53%)
● School hats (48%)
● Swimming costumes (44%)
● Backpacks (42%)
● Library bags (40%)
To help Aussie families shop smarter this back to school season, BIG W has partnered with
financial educator and money expert Vanessa Stoykov to provide her top tips for this time
of year.
Vanessa Stoykov says: “As a mum of three boys, I know how challenging shopping for a
new school year can be. After the holiday season and with more families feeling financial
pressure heading into 2023, my advice is to plan ahead, shop online and shop early to
make sure you’re getting the best deals. With a clear plan, you can invest in quality items
that will last the year ahead, while also saving money on supplies we all know kids will
inevitably lose, break or wear out!”
BIG W is making it easier for families to find real value across all back to school essentials
in store and online, with the option of free Pick Up or Direct to Boot services. For more
information and to view BIG W’s full range of back to school supplies visit
https://www.bigw.com.au/
