Mastercard SpendingPulse says U.S. retail sales grew +3.1% this holiday season (72.05)
U..S. retail sales excluding automotive increased +3.1% year-over-year this holiday season, running from November 1 through December 24. Mastercard SpendingPulse measures in-store and online retail sales across all forms of payment and is not adjusted for inflation.
Key retail trends this holiday season included:
Key retail trends this holiday season included:
- Shopping Extravaganzas In-Store & Online: Online retail sales increased +6.3% YOY while in-store sales were up a more modest +2.2% YOY. Spending online is increasing at a faster pace than in-store, therefore taking a growing slice of the retail pie, but shopping in-store still makes up a considerably larger portion of total retail spending.
- Winter Wardrobe Wonderland: Apparel was one of the top categories for shoppers this season as consumers shopped for new outfits and upcoming holiday festivities. The sector was up +2.4% YOY.
- Season's Eatings: Culinary celebrations continued as family and friends gathered in restaurants to ring in the holidays. The Restaurant sector was up +7.8% YOY, while Grocery was up +2.1% for the season.
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