Consumer Behavior
Holiday shoppers adjusting spend habits due to economy
November 21, 2025
Consumers are showing spending caution this holiday season and adjusting habits in response to economic uncertainty.
That's a prime finding of a Vertex survey that also revealed holiday spending plans favor deals, according to a press release.
More than half of consumers, 60%, expect to use buy now, pay later payment option or credit cards. They survey noted that BNPL complicate sales tax collection for retailers.
"As financial pressure shapes consumer behavior, shoppers are spreading purchases over time and turning to flexible payment options," Pete Olanday, director, retail consulting, Vertex, said in the release. "This shift challenges retailers to think beyond checkout efficiency and focus on operational readiness across systems. Those who integrate automated tax and compliance tools now will be best positioned to manage complexity and capture consumer demand throughout the season."
More than two-thirds (67%) of consumers worry that economic disruptions will not only impact their ability to afford gifts but also find gifts — particularly Millennials and Gen Z (74%, 73%).
