Emphasizing convenience and connection, consumers have energetically engaged in a blend of online and in-store shopping, transforming these actions into a festive tradition as they kicked off the season.
Preliminary data from Mastercard SpendingPulse indicates that U.S. retail sales—excluding automotive—exhibited a noteworthy increase of 3.9% year-over-year for the period spanning from November 1 to December 21.
Mastercard SpendingPulse meticulously evaluates in-store and online retail sales across all payment methods and remains unadjusted for inflation.
Consumers exhibited adaptability and assurance throughout this season, participating in early shopping, capitalizing on promotions, and prioritizing meaningful experiences along with their wish-list purchases.
The integration of online and in-store shopping enabled them to secure optimal deals and enhance convenience, stated Michelle Meyer, Chief Economist at the Mastercard Economics Institute.
As the holiday season progresses towards its conclusion, several pivotal trends have emerged for 2025:
- Discerned Shopping Across Platforms: Consumers not only sought value through discounts but also exhibited strategic shopping behaviors across various channels. Many combined in-store visits with online browsing, effectively maximizing both convenience and promotions.
E-commerce sales surged by 7.4%, while in-store transactions increased by 2.9%, exemplifying the fusion of blended shopping experiences. - A Season Adorned with Attire: Expenditures on apparel ascended by 7.8%, spurred by frigid temperatures and attractive seasonal offers that prompted wardrobe updates and gift exchanges.
Embracing an omnichannel strategy, online apparel sales rose by 8.5%, with in-store sales also climbing 7.0%, as shoppers sought online inspiration and price comparisons before venturing into physical stores for trying on and purchasing items. Jewelry sales similarly witnessed a rise of 1.6%, as consumers made calculated decisions regarding sparkling gifts. - The Culinary Experience as a Festive Custom: Spending in restaurants escalated by 5.2%, illuminating consumers’ persistent desire for experiences and communal moments during the holiday season.
From celebratory feasts to casual outings, dining out has solidified its status as an integral aspect of holiday traditions, underscoring the value consumers place on connection alongside tangible presents.
In the backdrop of accelerating investments in artificial intelligence, its adoption is already transforming consumer experiences. The Mastercard Economics Institute’s AI Enthusiasm Index in the Economic Outlook 2026 positions the U.S. as a frontrunner in the global arena of AI investment and adoption.
This trend influences a spectrum of activities, from tailored shopping suggestions to enhanced inventory management, facilitating retailers in delivering the convenience and value that consumers sought during this holiday season.
As we look to the future, the deepening integration of AI is poised to further streamline and enrich shopping experiences, reinforcing the omnichannel behaviors observed in recent months.
Mastercard SpendingPulse critically analyzes national retail transactions based on aggregated and anonymized insights gathered from Mastercard, spanning all forms of payment within select markets worldwide.
The definition of “U.S. retail sales” encompasses transactions at retailers and food services of all magnitudes. However, sales activities within most sectors of services (such as travel-related services) are excluded from this retail sales figure.
It is important to note that SpendingPulse insights do not reflect Mastercard’s own corporate performance; these insights and forecasts are subject to change.
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Source link: Marketscreener.com.
