Kinect and iPad in demand ahead of VAT rise, says Comet

Comet predicts pre-VAT rise demand for Kinect

The retailer claimed sales will be high before the VAT hike kicks in.

Comet is expecting to shift plenty of units of the Apple iPad and Xbox 360 motion controller Kinect before next year's VAT increase.

The electricals retailer forecast as many as five million people will head to its web and mobile sites between Christmas Eve and January 3rd 2011, ahead of the tax hike coming into effect on January 4th.

Up to 700,000 online shoppers are expected on Boxing Day alone, with the 11:00 to 12:00 GMT period predicted to be the busiest hour.

Commercial and marketing director at Comet Bob Darke said the iPad and Kinect, as well as 3D TVs, have seen a surge in sales in the run-up to December 25th and stated these will continue to be among the company's most popular products.

"Many customers will use the Christmas period to take advantage of our amazing deals and snap up some key purchases for the home," he added.

At the end of November, Microsoft revealed it shifted more than 2.5 million Kinects worldwide in the first 25 days after the launch of the device.