News
October 07, 2025
What to expect from the 2025 holiday shopping season
Forrester Research retail analyst Sucharita Kodali joins Asking for a Trend host Josh Lipton to share her expectations for the upcoming holiday shopping season and to discuss which retailers stand to benefit. To watch more expert insights and analysis on the latest market action, check out more Asking for a Trend.
Get ready for a holiday shopping season unlike any other! According to Forrester Research retail analyst Sucharita Kodali, the 2025 holiday season is shaping up to be a fascinating mix of opportunity and challenge for retailers. In a recent appearance on the "Asking for a Trend" podcast hosted by Josh Lipton, Kodali shared her expert insights on what consumers and businesses alike can expect.
While she didn't offer specific predictions on overall sales numbers, Kodali highlighted several key trends that are likely to influence how and where people spend their holiday dollars. She emphasized that the economic climate, with its persistent inflation and fluctuating consumer confidence, will continue to play a significant role. Shoppers are expected to remain price-conscious, actively seeking deals and discounts before making purchases.
The conversation also touched on which retailers are best positioned to thrive in this environment. Kodali suggested that retailers who have invested heavily in their omnichannel capabilities – seamlessly integrating online and offline shopping experiences – will have a distinct advantage. This means offering options like buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS), curbside pickup, and easy returns, catering to consumers' desire for convenience and flexibility.
Furthermore, retailers with strong loyalty programs and personalized marketing efforts are likely to see increased customer retention and engagement. Kodali pointed out that understanding individual customer preferences and tailoring offers accordingly is crucial in a competitive market.
The interview also hinted at the growing importance of mobile commerce and social commerce. With more and more consumers shopping on their smartphones and discovering products through social media platforms, retailers need to optimize their mobile presence and leverage social media channels to reach potential customers.
In conclusion, the 2025 holiday shopping season is anticipated to be a dynamic period, shaped by economic factors, evolving consumer behavior, and technological advancements. Retailers who adapt to these changes and prioritize customer experience are most likely to emerge as winners. For more in-depth analysis and expert perspectives on market trends, be sure to check out other episodes of "Asking for a Trend."
While she didn't offer specific predictions on overall sales numbers, Kodali highlighted several key trends that are likely to influence how and where people spend their holiday dollars. She emphasized that the economic climate, with its persistent inflation and fluctuating consumer confidence, will continue to play a significant role. Shoppers are expected to remain price-conscious, actively seeking deals and discounts before making purchases.
The conversation also touched on which retailers are best positioned to thrive in this environment. Kodali suggested that retailers who have invested heavily in their omnichannel capabilities – seamlessly integrating online and offline shopping experiences – will have a distinct advantage. This means offering options like buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPIS), curbside pickup, and easy returns, catering to consumers' desire for convenience and flexibility.
Furthermore, retailers with strong loyalty programs and personalized marketing efforts are likely to see increased customer retention and engagement. Kodali pointed out that understanding individual customer preferences and tailoring offers accordingly is crucial in a competitive market.
The interview also hinted at the growing importance of mobile commerce and social commerce. With more and more consumers shopping on their smartphones and discovering products through social media platforms, retailers need to optimize their mobile presence and leverage social media channels to reach potential customers.
In conclusion, the 2025 holiday shopping season is anticipated to be a dynamic period, shaped by economic factors, evolving consumer behavior, and technological advancements. Retailers who adapt to these changes and prioritize customer experience are most likely to emerge as winners. For more in-depth analysis and expert perspectives on market trends, be sure to check out other episodes of "Asking for a Trend."
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