BUSINESSES have enjoyed a surge in sales as Christmas Day draws near.
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Central business district shops, shopping centres and businesses further away from the heart of Bathurst have been seeing great foot traffic in the lead up to Christmas.
At Harvey Norman Bathurst, IT proprietor James Booth said his department, as well as the others, has seen a high volume of sales this year.
He said people were interested in new technology, including tablets and Google Home devices, and small appliances like toasters and kettles have been hot items.
The number of customers coming through the door is expected to increase on Monday and Tuesday as people try to snag those last-minute gifts.
"More and more every year people wait until the last minute," Mr Booth said.
To cope with the extra demand, Harvey Norman has offered extended trading hours for the last two weeks and Mr Booth said these will be continued through to Christmas Eve.
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Bathurst City Centre has also been seeing a steady flow of customers.
"Visitor numbers are strong as the countdown to Christmas begins, with shoppers taking advantage of the centre's comprehensive mix of stores on offer," centre manager Ivan Christian said.
"With over 500 car parks, as well as extended trading hours, Bathurst City Centre is the ideal destination to find that perfect gift this Christmas."
But retail isn't the only type of business seeing a rush of customers.
It has been a good Christmas period for Kelso Fruit Market, with people coming in to get all the produce they need to feed the family.
"We've had one of our best Christmases yet," Jason Browne said.
Customers have had a particular interest in stone fruit.
Kelso Fruit Market sources much of its produce from local farmers and is able to offer a variety of fruit, vegetables, nuts, eggs and lollies.
Like other businesses, Mr Browne expects Monday and Tuesday to be the busiest days for the market.
"We've got a large supply of everything you'll need for Christmas," he said, adding that large cherries are a great buy at the moment.
The market will only close on Christmas Day, meaning there is plenty of time to get everything for Christmas lunch or New Years Eve.
