Because of the high demand on drivers and delivery personnel, online shoppers for Christmas are advised to place their orders early.
Omicron’s variant could threaten the chances of high street revival and a shift towards online shopping, for the second consecutive year.
Families are expected to complete festive shopping online with some two thirds of all gift buying done via the web – totalling more than £35billion.
Due to concerns about insufficient van drivers and warehouse staff, the shift could place a significant burden on courier services.
A number of household-name retailers have moved the delivery date forward to address concerns about deliveries. Customers can now order items before Christmas so they are certain of receiving them.

Fears of high demand for delivery drivers are causing online Christmas shoppers to be warned about the importance of getting their orders in time
Home delivery experts ParcelHero says the arrival of Omicron means that online festive spending is expected to match last year’s figure of £35.26billion, as shoppers again grow cautious about visiting their high streets.
David Jinks (head of research) said that the lockdown of November forced many people to shop online for Christmas. This made this the most difficult holiday season ever on the high street.
“We do not expect a return to a pre Christmas lockdown this year, but customers are adapting to wearing masks again in shops and being more cautious about their contact with others.
“That will mean more Brits ordering online and shipping gifts via couriers.

Omicron’s variant could threaten the revival of high-street shopping and force shoppers to go online for the second consecutive year.
While he stated that it was good news to online retailers, he warned: “Given continuing driver shortages, delays in ports and supply chain issues. A further spike in orders might be the straw breaking the camel’s back.”
Mr Jinks said some retailers – such as Boohoo and Harrods – have already brought forward their order dates and he expects others will follow suit.
PwC accountant Lisa Hooker also stated that more than half the consumers have bought “most” of their gifts by last month.