Alabama consumers near $18B in holiday spending, topping last year

Holiday shopping is in full swing and according to Alabama Retail Association, our state has spent nearly $18 billion in gifts so far this season. Read on for a closer look plus some places to get your shopping done.

Inflation who?

We’ve all been affected in some way by recent inflation and higher prices. While you may have guessed this would lead to a drop in holiday spending, the National Retail Federation (ARF) guessed the opposite.

Earlier this year, ARF projected there would be an increase in 2022 sales and it appears they were right. In a recent shopping survey, ARF shared that 76% of consumers opened their wallets over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend with half of their purchases made through Cyber Monday. (ARF’s holiday growth prediction is for all taxed sales including those from remote sellers.)

Why is this so? According to the Alabama Retail Association, instead of avoiding holiday shopping, Alabama consumers continue to spend by shopping smarter and earlier. This year, shoppers are stretching their shopping budget out over a longer period with many having begun their holiday purchasing back in August and October.

Here’s a look of holiday spending over the past five years:

• 2022: $18B
• 2021: $17B
• 2020: $15B
• 2019: $13B
• 2018: $12B

Where to shop

While big corporations like Amazon may be your go-to for all things shopping, the Alabama Retail Association encourages consumers shop with local retailers in their community. Why?

“The stores down the street or around the corner support your community in big and small ways daily. By shopping with retailers based in your community or our state, you contribute to the health of your local and state economies.”

Rick Brown, President, Alabama Retail Association

Ready to do YOUR holiday shopping?

Check out these stocking stuffers, holiday markets and more around Alabama:

• 10+ dazzling holiday gifts for any budget from Christopher Collection
• 5 holiday markets to buy local handmade gifts in Birmingham
• These local stocking stuffers are 2022’s ultimate gift for creatives—shop now
• 3 Christmas tree farms to check out near Huntsville
• 4 Auburn holiday shopping events: Blue Friday, Museum Store Sunday. Holiday Market + more

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