The holiday 2024 season is here, and it’s the busiest time of year for retail store operations teams. Stores are bustling, and customer expectations are higher than ever. Every retailer wants to deliver a holiday shopping experience that leaves customers delighted and coming back for more. But with so many shoppers flooding in, are you and your team truly ready to “sleigh” it this season?
If you’re feeling the pressure, don’t worry. You may already have a solid foundation in place, but there’s still time for last-minute tweaks to help boost holiday sales and make your store the go-to destination for holiday shopping. In our recent webinar, we’re sharing insights from over 100,000 consumers along with practical tips to help your store deliver an unforgettable experience this season.
What to expect in holiday spending?
Despite inflation and economic uncertainty, holiday spending is still expected to grow by 2.5%-3.5% from last year, though at a slower pace. Shoppers are spending, but they’re mindful of value. This is where your store can make a difference. Offer competitive pricing, emphasize quality, and consider flexible payment options like buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) to attract budget-conscious customers.
Holiday checklist for capturing spend:
- Showcase quality and value in your products
- Spread out promotions beyond Black Friday to capture both early shoppers and last-minute buyers
- Create clear signage to make holiday deals easy to spot
When will shoppers be hitting the stores?
With Thanksgiving falling later this year, the holiday shopping season is condensed. About half of shoppers will have started their holiday shopping by mid-November, but many will still be shopping up until Christmas Eve. Black Friday is still significant, though polarizing, with some customers planning to shop that weekend while others avoid the rush. Your best bet? Balance your approach to cater to both crowds.
Holiday checklist for timing:
- Set the holiday mood early with festive decor
- Staff up for key shopping days, including Black Friday and the days leading up to Christmas
- Plan in-store events like gift-wrapping stations or pop-up demos on peak days
What do shoppers really want from the in-store experience?
Two-thirds of shoppers come in without a clear idea of what to buy. This creates a big opportunity for your team to make personalized recommendations and help customers discover the perfect gifts. Deals and promotions are also important—60% of shoppers say discounts affect their holiday buying decisions. It’s not just about low prices; shoppers want to feel they’re getting true value.
Holiday checklist for customer experience:
- Train staff to make gift recommendations.
- Use effective signage to guide customers through promotions.
- Create welcoming areas, like seating or refreshment stations, to enhance the store atmosphere.
Wrap it all up
The holiday season is a high-stakes time in retail, and preparation is key. From value-driven promotions to festive decor and a well-trained team, each element contributes to the overall experience your store provides.
To learn more about effectively applying these insights and strategies, explore our retail experience platform or schedule a demo today.
