Tag: gift cards

Holiday budgets are expected to shrink by more than 10 percent this year, as elevated costs weigh on consumers. Still gift-giving remains a priority, with gift cards, and toys and games popular selections.

That’s according to JLL’s U.S. Holiday Shopping Survey. Released in September, the report features the sentiments of 1,001 consumers, who were surveyed online. The survey reveals a sense of caution over spending on costly technology items, and a preference for gift cards, allowing recipients the flexibility to select their own presents.

According to the survey, shoppers are trimming spending habits from $1,261 to $1,133 on food, decor and entertainment, but gift budgets remain unchanged. Still, higher-income shoppers from households that bring in more than $150,000 annually, expect to increase spending to $1,963, up from $1,599 last year.

The survey also found that shoppers who linger more than 90 minutes spend $1,416, while those who visit stores quickly, in under 30 minutes, spend $792, showing that “dwell” time drives revenue. To encourage longer visits, JLL suggests offering such amenities as seating, charging stations, Wi-Fi, holiday music and warm drinks. JLL also recommends tracking time spent in stores through app check-ins or parking validation, and offering incentives such as loyalty points, extended parking or bundled discounts with nearby food partners and entertainment venues.

And while 16.3 percent plan to shop exclusively online, 83 percent expect to visit physical retailers. Mass merchandisers are slated to attract more than 62 percent of consumers, signaling that many prefer “value-focused, one-stop shopping destinations.”

With concerns about inflation, 60.6 percent said they are actively seeking more deals this year, with 71 percent prioritizing low prices.  More than 46 percent, up from over 44 percent last year, plan to scope deals during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. And more than 37 percent plan to purchase less expensive gifts, while nearly 25 percent said they plan to  shop for fewer people. Still, shoppers report that they would also seek out deals throughout the season. To create awareness about deals, Jll suggests making promotions highly visible with digital signage, mobile alerts and cross-store savings events. Also recommended is placing deals front and center online and in store, and offering flash sales to create urgency.

Meantime, 25 percent plan to skip personal purchases, up from 17.3 percent last year.

Social media continues to play a pivotal role in holiday shopping, with 79% of consumers using it for inspiration, down slightly from 81% in 2024. Gen Z consumers show a strong preference for TikTok, with 46.2% using the platform for its engaging, video-driven content. Millennials are turning to Facebook, Instagram and X for their holiday planning, reflecting a preference for varied content. Meanwhile, of those 60 and older, 57.9% avoid social media entirely for holiday inspiration, but those who do engage prefer Facebook and Instagram, highlighting these platforms’ ability to connect across generations. JLL suggests that retailers can create content-friendly spaces with photo backdrops, festive lighting and influencer events. Contests for posts or check-ins can drive engagement and visibility.

Shoppers at open-air centers value festive décor and music that create a holiday atmosphere. Mall shoppers seek perks like gift-wrapping and visits with Santa, while online shoppers prioritize efficiency and avoiding mall crowds.

Meanwhile, Amazon, Walmart and Target are a favorite among consumers, while Costco and Macy’s are also popular, but less so. Shoppers are also drawn to Etsy and Temu.

Those earning more than $150,000 are drawn to entertainment and holiday-related experiences, including performances, dining and travel.

Food and beverage also play a role among shoppers, with 84.6 percent saying they plan to indulge at least occasionally, with 51 percent seeking beverages. Younger shoppers prefer fast-casual spots. Older generations who combine food and shopping are more likely to want a full meal, rather than just a snack or drink, suggesting that they seek memorable experiences. JLL recommends adding seasonal drink specials, appealing hot chocolate stations and grab-and-go snacks near checkouts. And sampling stations for holiday treats can turn food into a destination, not just a convenience.

The survey also found that nearly half of shoppers visit just three to five stores. JLL suggests that concierge-style gift stations can streamline the experience by offering recommendations, store maps and quick help, keeping visits focused and efficient for shoppers.