Holiday Shopping Insights

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🎁 Holiday Shopping Trends 2023

Understanding Holiday Shoppers
A recent RetailMeNot survey of 1,000 U.S. consumers uncovers trends defining holiday shopping in 2023. From influencer recommendations to early-bird shoppers, these insights highlight how brands can adapt to meet customer expectations during the busiest retail season of the year.

1️⃣ The Power of Influencers
Influencers have become key decision-makers for shoppers, with 50% of consumers adding items to their carts based on influencer suggestions. Additionally, 44% plan to buy products endorsed by influencers this holiday season. Collaborating with the right influencers who align with your brand values can significantly boost awareness and conversions.

2️⃣ Sources of Holiday Inspiration
Shoppers find inspiration from:

• Closed circles (55%): Personal recommendations carry unmatched trust.
• In-store displays (46%): Creative and visually striking setups drive purchases.
• Retail platforms (45%): Seamless and intuitive online shopping experiences are critical.
  These findings emphasize the importance of omnichannel strategies that integrate digital and physical retail experiences.

3️⃣ The Role of Deal Sites
Platforms offering discounts and promotions are magnets for holiday shoppers. Key stats include:

• 70% use deal sites: Shoppers actively hunt for savings and gifting ideas.
• 85% explore new brands: Attractive deals serve as a gateway to capturing new customers.
  Retailers must leverage discounts creatively to expand their audience and encourage repeat purchases.

4️⃣ Early-Bird Shoppers
An overwhelming 83% of consumers begin shopping before Thanksgiving, driven by:

• Budgetary planning (60%): Spreading out expenses eases financial stress.
• Timely deliveries (51%): Avoiding delays during the holiday rush.
• Stock concerns (45%): Ensuring availability of must-have items.
  Brands can cater to these needs by promoting early deals and guaranteeing efficient logistics.

5️⃣ Managing Holiday Stress
Shoppers face challenges including:

• Rising prices (52%): Heightened inflation makes affordability a top priority.
• Crowded stores (48%): Busy environments deter some shoppers, pushing them online.
  Retailers can alleviate stress through targeted discounts, flexible return policies, and a seamless blend of online and offline experiences.

Case Study: Target’s Holiday Price Match Guarantee
Target’s Holiday Price Match Guarantee addresses shoppers’ biggest pain points: affordability and convenience. By ensuring price adjustments on deals found after purchase, Target enhances customer satisfaction and builds loyalty. This strategy also capitalizes on early-bird trends, encouraging consumers to shop confidently before the Black Friday frenzy.

Pro Tips for Holiday Success

1. Collaborate with Influencers: Partner with trusted names to boost product visibility.
2. Prioritize Visual Merchandising: Captivating displays—both in-store and online—enhance engagement.
3. Optimize Logistics: Guarantee timely delivery and hassle-free returns to retain trust.

The Bottom Line
Holiday shopping trends in 2023 highlight the importance of personalization, strategic discounts, and a seamless shopping experience. By addressing stressors and leveraging sources of inspiration, brands can amplify sales and create memorable holiday moments for their customers.

That’s it for this edition—because being a marketer isn’t just about keeping up, it’s about thinking ahead, and executing faster than failing. Catch you next time with more ideas to keep you ahead!