Holiday Spending

This article was originally featured in StreetFight.

Christena Garduno, CEO of Media Culture, shares her insights on the upcoming holiday shopping season in a recent interview. She predicts that experiential retail will become increasingly important, as shoppers seek more engaging, emotional connections with brands. Retailers offering immersive in-store experiences, such as pop-up shops or product customization stations, will appeal to customers craving unique shopping moments. This hybrid model, combining online convenience with in-person experiences, will help businesses stand out.

Garduno also notes that health and self-care products will be in high demand, reflecting consumers’ growing focus on mental and physical well-being after years of pandemic-induced uncertainty. Items like skincare kits, wellness apps, and fitness wearables will be popular gifts. Additionally, experience-based gifts, such as cooking classes or wellness retreats, will gain traction, as people value meaningful experiences over material possessions.

In terms of marketing, Garduno anticipates that brands will create more emotionally resonant campaigns that emphasize unity, nostalgia, and community, capitalizing on the desire for connection. User-generated content will also play a key role in fostering authenticity, with brands encouraging consumers to share their holiday memories.

AI will significantly impact the holiday shopping experience, particularly in inventory management and personalized customer service. AI tools will help ensure timely deliveries, minimize stockouts, and provide tailored shopping recommendations, enhancing the overall consumer experience.

Read the full article here.