Though Online Shopping Carts Ring in the Majority of Sales
First National Bank of Omaha recently released the results of its 2018 Shop, Buy, Give Survey. The study delves into consumer purchasing preferences and tendencies, offering valuable insight for local businesses of all sizes this holiday season.
“During peak shopping season, retailers and eTailers are all vying to maximize sales, which offers so many options to consumers. While the trend continues toward Cyber Monday as the preferred shopping day, First National Bank of Omaha encourages everyone to shop locally when possible,” said Jerry J. O’Flanagan, executive vice president, Consumer Banking Group, at First National Bank of Omaha. “It’s important to note that many local retailers also offer the convenience of online shopping and the money you spend stays within your community.”
Highlights from the survey include:
Consumer Behaviors:
- 64% plan to shop during Cyber Monday, versus 50% on Black Friday and 47% on Small Business Saturday.
- 47% start their holiday shopping in November, while 18% report they do a majority of their holiday shopping in December.
- 69% of Americans prefer to support local retailers, however 71% say they prioritize shopping where prices are the lowest.
On Budgeting:
- 61% say they stick to their budget during the holidays.
- 54% report they spend $500 or less on holiday gifts.
- 52% report that they plan on spending the same amount on all holiday related expenses this year as they did in previous years, while 31% say they plan on decreasing this year’s spend.
On Online Shopping/Social Media:
- 63% of respondents report that they are more likely to make a purchase from a store if they see a discount for that store on social media.
- 56% of Americans plan to purchase holiday gifts online, while 44% say they are more likely to make purchases in-store.
Consumers on the ‘Season of Giving’:
- 55% of respondents say they are more likely to support a retailer that has a charity component.
- 51% of respondents will give back this year by donating items, 48% will donate money, 38% will give back by supporting local businesses and 31% will volunteer.
METHODOLOGY
The study was conducted online using Survey Monkey. One thousand participants were polled, spanning across the United States. The demographic of those polled represented a broad range in generation, geographic location, and gender.
About First National Bank of Omaha
First National Bank of Omaha is a subsidiary of First National of Nebraska. First National of Nebraska and its affiliates have more than $21 billion in assets and 5,000 employee associates. Primary banking offices are located in Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, South Dakota and Texas.
