Nov 7, 2019 - Economy

Americans are ready to spend on holiday shopping, but expect steep discounts

Dion Rabouin

Presents in shopping bags in living room — Photo: Betsie Van der Meer/Getty Images

Americans plan to increase their holiday spending, with the average rising to about $675 on gifts this holiday season, according to a survey provided first to Axios by The Conference Board. That is an increase from last year's estimate of $627.

Yes, but: Consumers say they are expecting steep discounts, with more than a third reporting they expect — at a minimum — to buy half of their gifts on sale.

"Consumers will be discerning when spending," The Conference Board says in a release accompanying the data.
"Most will expect bargains, comparison shop, and wait up to the last minute for steep discounts."

The intrigue: Consumers continue to move online for holiday purchases. The Conference's Board survey, conducted by data provider Nielsen, found that 42% of respondents expect to do at least half of their holiday shopping online. That's up from just under 37% in 2017.

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Americans are ready to spend on holiday shopping, but expect steep discounts

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