2026 Holiday shopper report: 7 key loyalty insights

Ahead of the busy holiday shopping season, shoppers aren’t asking retailers to reinvent the retail experience — rather asking retailers to just get the basics right: products consistently in stock, smooth checkout, and quick resolution when service or experience issues arise.
The fundamentals are even more important in a year where shoppers watch every dollar. Nearly four in 10 say a tighter budget will have the biggest impact on their holiday spending, while another quarter of consumers expect rising prices to force tougher choices. When money is tight, patience disappears and small moments of friction become reasons to leave.