Bonus blown on gifts, less spent on going out
Greeks gave a larger chunk of their Christmas bonus this year to gifts but have trimmed spending on evening entertainment expenses, according to a survey made public yesterday by the Consumer Protection Center (KEPKA). The data showed that Greeks spent 18 percent of their bonus on presents this year versus 14 percent in 2004, with an average family of four handing over 400 to 550 euros for gifts. Labor laws foresee that workers are paid an extra salary each Christmas. Credits cards swallowed up 16 percent of the bonus, while entertainment expenses, clothing, footwear and gambling costs were all given lower priorities than last year, KEDKA added. Heating and food bills remained among the top items, demanding 15 percent and 14 percent respectively of the extra payment.
