2019 Holiday Retail Sales Recap: Lessons to Learn for 2020

As the most wonderful time of the year is also the busiest time of the year for most consumers, new technology aims to free up a little bit of that precious time for busy shoppers. Consumers aged 18-34 are more likely to use new technologies to save time while shopping. With 40% of these shoppers expected to spend more than last holiday season, tech increases could make the difference between whether consumers are spending money at your store or your competitor’s. Whether you’re seeking more shoppers online, in-store, or both, tech users are eager to see increased convenience with modern equipment. Automated checkouts are preferred by 23% of shoppers. Newer in-store technologies are appealing to younger consumers as well, with 21% of shoppers seeking mobile wallet payments and 16% with a preference for new methods of delivery – i.e. drones or in-car delivery. New technology is helping mobile shoppers save time as well, with convenient options like mobile 3D body scanning, which allows you to get to know your actual customers. Meanwhile, the better you know your customers, the more personalized you can make the recommendations, the more customized you can make the product, and the more likely they are to shop with you. So, whether your 2019 holiday retail season has already either exceeded or fallen short of your expectations, there’s always room for improvement. As the saying goes, hindsight is 20/20, and though it might prove difficult to improve your sales before the end of the year, today’s stats can provide a look into the future. It’s safe to say that smartphones aren’t going anywhere; with mobile growth on the rise, mobile sales are projected to account for 54% of total e-commerce sales by 2021 and are bound to keep growing with every year. For successful online stores preparing for the year ahead and for the Christmas shopping season to come, new technology will be the way to attract more customers next holiday season.