Average person has completed half of shopping, NRF
19 Dec '07
2 min read
No matter which way you choose to look at it, procrastinators abound this holiday season, but the biggest holiday dawdlers this year are men, according to NRF's 2007 Holiday Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by BIGresearch. The survey found that nearly one in five men (19.4%) had yet to begin their holiday shopping, more than women (13.7%) or young adults 18-24 (17.6%).
An impressive 25 million consumers (11.7%) have completely finished their holiday shopping, but more than 35 million shoppers (16.5%) admit they haven't even started. Thusfar, the average person has completed about half (52.6%) of his or her shopping, compared to 53.1 percent at this time last year.
“Though the holiday season will be a challenge for retailers and shoppers are paying attention to prices, people are still buying Christmas presents,” said NRF President and CEO Tracy Mullin. “The last-minute rush will be busier than ever this year, and retailers are preparing by expanding employee schedules, keeping shelves stocked, and extending store hours.”
According to the survey, department stores are expected to be the destination of choice the week before Christmas, as 42.4 percent of shoppers plan to visit those stores to finish up holiday shopping. Other destinations will include discount stores (38.9%), the internet (34.9%), and specialty stores (29.9%).
Clothing and accessories have been the most popular gifts this holiday season, with 44.4 percent of consumers (and 49.8% of women) purchasing at least one item this year. Books, CDs, and DVDs (41.9%) have also been popular choices, as are toys (35.4%).
marketing@alchempro.com
