Dads want gadgets, not jocks

AAP

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FORGET socks and jocks, dads want electronic gadgets and more expensive gifts for Father's Day this year.

The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) says popular choices for dads include barbecues, hardware and electronic goods, including iPads, electric shavers and computer games.

"A lot of the traditional things are being bought by dad during the year as required, and Father's Day is an opportunity for families to purchase things more exciting," ARA director Russell Zimmerman told AAP.

"There's more anecdotal evidence that people are moving away from the traditional gifts, and we're finding that a lot of things being bought are a little different this year."

The ARA says the lead-up to Father's Day wasn't as significant a trading period as Mother's Day.

But retailers are heavily promoting their wares this year to convince children to treat their dads and help boost spring sales after a lacklustre winter.

Mr Zimmerman said buying something "exciting" for dad would help boost the economy after a couple of lean years.

Research group IBISWorld predicts fathers can expect their kids to splurge on a gift or take them out for a meal, or both.

Hardware and electronics retailers will be wearing the biggest grins on Father's Day, with spending in this sector tipped to rise 13 per cent to $236.4 million.

However, clothing retailers will be disappointed with sales forecast to slump 6.8 per cent to $127.4 million forecast.

IBISWorld general manager Robert Bryant said overall spending for Fathers Day this year would be up slightly from 2009, but it wouldn't reach the levels seen before the global economic downturn.

"Improved economic conditions, lower unemployment and higher disposable incomes will support spending in 2010, although Australians remain cautious," Mr Bryant said.

Father's Day falls on Sunday, September 5.