Nearly 200 Million Shoppers Expected to Flood Stores This Holiday Weekend

Retail experts forecast that approximately 187 million consumers will venture out to shop from Thanksgiving Day through Cyber Monday. This estimate comes from a consumer survey conducted by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights and Analytics, released on November 20. The prediction marks an increase from last year, when 183.4 million shoppers were anticipated.

According to data from the National Retail Federation, actual turnout in December 2024 reached a staggering 197 million shoppers. This uptick highlights the significance of the holiday season for many consumers, with budgets increasingly allocated for gifts and celebrations.

Consumer Trends for 2024

The survey reveals notable trends in consumer preferences, particularly in the toy sector. Vintage items from the 1960s are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. Toys such as Legos, Barbie, Hot Wheels, and classic dolls are expected to dominate shopping lists this year.

Katherine Cullen, Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights at the National Retail Federation, commented on the growing importance of holiday spending. “The holidays are an important part of many consumers’ budgets, and that trend is especially true this season,” she stated.

The anticipated influx of shoppers is likely to have a considerable impact on retail sales, with stores preparing for a busy weekend. Retailers are expected to offer a range of promotions and discounts to attract shoppers, further stimulating consumer spending.

As the holiday season approaches, businesses are keenly aware of the financial implications tied to this shopping period. With nearly 200 million shoppers predicted to participate, the upcoming days could prove vital for many retailers’ annual performance.