U.S. holiday retail sales in 2024: Strong growth amid shifting shopping behaviors

Steady year-over-year growth: December 2024 retail sales increased by 3.4% compared to December 2023, reflecting resilience in consumer spending despite inflationary pressures. This growth excludes auto parts, motor vehicle, and gas station sales.
E-commerce continues to dominate: While electronics and furniture sales surged, brick-and-mortar foot traffic at electronics & appliance stores dropped significantly, and home furnishings foot traffic increased only slightly. Sales of clothing and accessories grew largely between the two holiday seasons, but foot traffic remained flat. The rise of online shopping platforms continues to shape purchasing behavior.
Non-store retail on the rise: Online retail sales grew by 10.2%, reinforcing the sustained consumer preference for e-commerce, particularly during peak holiday shopping days like Cyber Monday and Super Saturday.

February 5, 2025