The much awaited holiday season is finally here. Year-end holiday spend accounts for over a quarter of every retail brand’s gross annual revenue. It's been predicted that this year total holiday sales will be around $950 billion. While e-commerce will remain important this season, in-store shopping will be more prevalent compared to 2021. Even as uncertainties persist (inflation, supply chain, labor, consumer behavior) retailers must implement technology, processes, operations, employee and customer experience measures to operate and adapt as needed across stores and digital channels.
We invited 40+ experts in the industry to pen down their thoughts and give their valuable advice to retailers and brands on tactics to prepare for the next two months. As you browse through these pages, there are insights into what you as retailer or brand should focus on in areas of merchandising, marketing, customer service and experience, returns, supply chain, workforce and fulfillment. Even if it is late in the day to switch strategies, the advice given in the pages to follow are intended to be valid year round.
Whether you are run an online store or physical store, one thing you can be guaranteed this season is the surge of customers. It’s going to be an exciting holiday season! It's time to deliver that holiday spirit to all your customers through a great experience. Hope this comprehensive edition helps you meet the challenge that's already unfolding.
Please do send us your thoughts on what worked and what did not this season. Have fun!
Happy reading.
John Mathews
editor@retail-today.com
The Golden Quarter: Holiday Season 2022
