Retailers are praying that this week’s payday will encourage consumers to head for the shops and give a much-needed boost to sales as volatile trading conditions persist.

John Lewis director of selling operations Nat Wakely said: “This weekend will be significantly busier than last. If this year is anything like last, we will grow each week.”

Retailers have circulated a swathe of secret Sale e-mails over the past week, which are likely to stimulate performance. Gap, Threshers, Borders, Selfridges, Habitat and Warehouse are among those to have taken this route.

Promotions have been widespread as retailers seek to kick-start spending in the wake of multiple interest rate rises and the credit crunch. One high-profile retailer said that last week brought some “horrendous” figures for many stores. “It is tough out there,” he said. “I expect there to be considerably more stock around.”

Shore Capital analyst John Stevenson reported widespread discounting, including 10 per cent off at WHSmith, 30 per cent at Gap, 20 per cent at Dorothy Perkins and other promotions at retailers including Faith, Barratts and Free Spirit.

> London’s West End hopes for a sales surge tomorrow as Oxford Street, Regent Street and – for the first time – Bond Street are pedestrianised for the day.

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