Deloitte: Consumer Sentiment Improves as the Excitement of Black Friday Returns

Deloitte's "2021 Pre-Thanksgiving Pulse Survey" indicates this Thanksgiving shopping period is set to be merry and bright for retailers despite supply…

| November 24, 2021

Deloitte's "2021 Pre-Thanksgiving Pulse Survey" indicates this Thanksgiving shopping period is set to be merry and bright for retailers despite supply chain and inflation challenges; digital trends continue to permeate even as shoppers return to stores.

"Thanksgiving has traditionally signaled the kick-off to the holiday shopping season. However, stockouts and inflation have caused consumers to start buying earlier to ensure they can get the best price for what they want, while it's available, says Rod Sides, vice chair, Deloitte LLP, and U.S. retail, wholesale and distribution leader. "Retailers should be prepared to welcome shoppers throughout the holiday weekend as they prioritize items they can purchase and take home that day. In situations where supply chain and inventory are a challenge this season, retailers will need to have a strong substitution strategy in place to keep shoppers in the store or online."

Key takeaways

  • Consumers will spend an average of $448, during the Thanksgiving period (Thursday, Nov. 25 – Monday, Nov. 29), up 12% from last year.
  • Thirty-five percent of shoppers will spend more over the holidays than they originally planned.
  • Supply chain challenges and inflation affecting many: 63% of holiday shoppers have already experienced stockouts, and consumers are being squeezed on price with 54% reporting higher prices, and 37% saying there are fewer discounts year-over-year.
  • Black Friday is regaining lost ground as 56% of consumers plan to shop in-store, up from 41% in 2020; the share of online sales for the day is holding steady at 18%.

 

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