HOUSTON, Texas – A record number of shoppers are expected to make last-minute purchases this weekend as the holiday countdown enters its final stretch.
According to the National Retail Federation, nearly 159 million consumers are expected to shop on Super Saturday, the final Saturday before Christmas. That would mark the largest turnout ever recorded for the annual shopping day, surpassing last year’s total and continuing a trend of strong holiday spending.
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Retail analysts say the timing is a major factor, with shoppers facing just days before Christmas and many still trying to wrap up their gift lists. Surveys show consumers have completed only about half of their holiday shopping so far, leaving plenty of purchases for the final week.
Many shoppers plan to use a mix of online and in-store options, while others say they’ll shop exclusively in physical stores to guarantee gifts arrive on time. Department stores, discount retailers, and online shops are expected to see the heaviest traffic.
Clothing, toys, gift cards, books and beauty products remain among the most popular purchases this season. Some shoppers say they delayed buying gifts because they were unsure what to get, were managing other financial priorities, or were waiting for gift ideas from family and friends.
Retailers are also preparing for continued activity after Christmas. A majority of consumers say they plan to shop in the days following the holiday, often to take advantage of sales or spend gift cards.
Industry leaders say the surge in Super Saturday shopping reflects consumer confidence and underscores the importance of the final days of the holiday retail season.