So says the International Council of Shopping Centers. According to the ICSC's 2015 Consumer Forecast, 90 percent of U.S. shoppers are planning holiday purchases this season, up from 82 percent in 2014, and 80 percent of those shoppers plan to spend the same or more than last year.
Overall, ICSC is forecasting a 3.3 percent growth in retail sales over November and December compared with the same period last year. The pace would be significantly ahead of the average 10-year holiday sales growth of 1.8 percent. Specifically dealing with online shopping, the National Retail Federation predicts holiday sales will rise between 6 and 8 percent, totaling as much as $105bn.
Up from $677 in 2014, holiday shoppers will spend $702 on average this season, including $575 on gifts and $127 on decorations and other holiday-related items.
For shoppers with an income over $100,000, the average spend for the season will be $1,062. Those with an income less than $35,000 will spend an average of $500.
