This holiday season, many Americans are adopting a practical approach to shopping due to the economic uncertainty and rising costs of living. With inflation on the rise, consumers are focusing on buying essential items such as appliances, clothing, furniture, and even everyday essentials like kitchen towels and reusable snack bags.
As reported by Adobe Analytics, online sales of refrigerators and freezers skyrocketed 1,700% in Cyber Monday alone, while vacuum cleaners saw a 1,300% increase. Similarly, power tools and jackets rose 900% and 850% respectively.
Consumers are becoming more strategic about their purchases, looking for discounts and comparing prices. Some parents are even wrapping everyday items like diapers and baby shampoo to fill the space under the Christmas tree.
Despite economic challenges, some families are sticking to their wish lists and prioritizing gifts that will come in handy. Others, like 35-year-old Alecia Bencze, are opting for more affordable options, such as golf balls for her father or a barbecue set for her brother.
As data suggests, lower- and middle-income Americans are pulling back on spending, while the wealthy are trading down from luxury stores to lower-priced retailers. The National Retail Federation expects holiday sales to grow 4% this year, slightly less than last year’s 4.3% increase.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/12/14/inflation-drives-holiday-shopping