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I Saw Mommy Googling Santa Claus [Infographic]

U.S. holiday retail sales are expected to reach $586 billion in 2012. Online and mobile sales will account for larger portion of those sales than ever before. Check out the trends in our latest infographic.

November 15, 2012 by James Bickers — Editor, Networld Alliance

Last week, one of the local rock radio stations in my hometown of Louisville, KY switched formats, to 24/7 holiday music. Judging by the extremely unscientific method of looking at my Facebook feed, people think it's way too early for "Jingle Bells" and "Silent Night."

While it might be too early to break out the tunes, retailers know that it's definitely time to start breaking out the end-caps and store displays - or at the very least, finish preparation for this year's roll-out. Total sales for the season are projected to be at $586 billion - a four percent increase over last year - and this year, mobile is going to make a big impact on just how that money gets spent.

For many pundits and retailers, 2012 has been the Year of Showrooming - a terrifying specter for retail brands. And there's good reason to be alarmed: 56 percent of consumers will do some holiday showrooming this year, and more than a fourth of them say they will likely make their purchases online, while standing in a store.

We've gathered a wealth of data relative to this year's holiday retailing season, specifically as it pertains to online and mobile behaviors, and you'll find that data in this infographic. In the spirit of giving, we encourage you to use the embed code to pass it along to your friends, colleagues and readers.

+ click to enlarge image