Learn more about how consumers are spending and shopping this holiday season at NRF's Holiday Headquarters.
As shoppers pack up their Halloween costumes and décor, they're already gearing up for one of the biggest events of the year — the winter holidays. But even while they shake out the tinsel and send off letters to the North Pole, consumers are paying extra attention to their bottom line this year: 85% say they expect prices for gifts and other holiday items will be higher this year specifically because of tariffs.
To keep within their budgets, shoppers are turning to several strategies, including searching for the best sale or promotion, comparing prices across retailers and looking at secondhand or upcycled gifts. In fact, over half (59%) say they would consider buying a secondhand gift for someone else. Their top reason? They’re looking to save money and get greater value on the items they purchase.
Books and other media are the most popular secondhand items consumers would consider giving as a gift this holiday season. Whether it’s a cookbook for the chef in their life, a board book for their new baby cousin or a record for their favorite music-lover, consumers are thinking about picking up these personal gifts used rather than new.
Other items on secondhand gift lists include clothing, accessories and home décor. And whether they’re picking up these items at a thrift store or browsing a brand’s pre-owned items online, consumers aren’t only thinking about their loved ones as they shop around. Sixty-four percent say they might purchase a secondhand gift for themselves this holiday season.
To follow along with more holiday insights throughout the season, check out NRF’s Winter Holiday Headquarters.
