Christmas in July: CRC’S 2025 Holiday Shopping Outlook

By CRC Consumer Insights & Advisory Services Team

It might be 90 degrees outside, but consumers already have twinkling lights and shopping lists on the brain. Holiday planning is officially underway – from who they’re buying for to what they’ll buy, how much money they’ll spend, and where they’ll spend it.

CRC surveyed our consumer panel in July 2025 to understand how shoppers are approaching this year’s holiday season. The results point to a more intentional, practical, and stretched-out shopping period, with a few new twists brands and retailers should be ready for.

1. Consumers Expect to Spend More – But Their Lists Are Smaller

Despite trimming down their gift lists, consumers expect to overall spending to rise this season.  Many consumers are leaning into practical gift categories like food and beverage, home and kitchen items, and pet products, with inflation and rising prices likely playing a role. 

The focus for 2025? Spending smarter – not smaller.

2. Some Shoppers Are Starting Early

Early birds are getting a head start on holiday shopping, mostly to snag deals or avoid out-of-stocks. There’s also a rising influence from social media and major life events nudging shoppers to act sooner. 

3. Deal Events Are Evolving

While Amazon Prime Day has long been a popular time to stock up on holiday gifts, this year slightly fewer consumers said they’d shop it for holiday-related purchases – with some holding out for late-season deals from home centers and other outlets. Walmart’s Early Black Friday event is gaining popularity alongside Amazon Prime’s Early Access.  

4. Retailer Websites May Still Be the Leaders, But Shoppers Are Expanding Their Reach

Amazon and Walmart remain top holiday stops, but consumers are expanding their wallets and web browsers. We expect increased traffic to dollar stores, grocery chains, beauty retailers, and brand websites as shoppers balance comfort and convenience with value and category-specific needs.

The Bottom Line

The 2025 holiday shopping outlook is shaping up to be more intentional, more practical, and more spread out than in years past. Brands that adjust their strategy with smart timing, clear targeting, and relevant messaging will be best positioned to meet consumers where are they are, right when they’re ready to cross that next gift off their list.

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