Perfect Corp. has unveiled its findings from a 2024 holiday retail survey conducted within the YouCam Apps user community, providing valuable insights into this year’s key shopping trends. The survey highlights a growing emphasis on value-driven, personalized, and technology-enhanced shopping, reflecting changing consumer behavior in response to economic pressures.
Key Consumer Trends for the 2024 Holiday Season
A significant 66% of consumers plan to reduce their holiday spending, indicating a stronger focus on value and savings this year. As consumers tighten their budgets, they are looking for more cost-effective options that don’t compromise on quality. Despite this budget-consciousness, there remains a strong desire for engaging and enjoyable shopping experiences. The trend toward a hybrid shopping model—combining both online and in-store experiences—is gaining popularity.
Personalization & AI Take Center Stage for 2024 Holiday Shopping Trends
AI and personalization are central to enhancing the shopping experience this holiday season. According to the survey, 52% of consumers are using or planning to use AI in their shopping, highlighting the normalization of these technologies. Virtual try-ons, powered by augmented reality (AR), have gained traction, with 23% of shoppers expressing interest in these tools. Furthermore, AI-powered virtual assistants are becoming increasingly popular, with 26% of consumers seeking personalized, interactive features to enhance their shopping journey.
“We’re excited to empower brands and retailers with the insights and technology solutions they need to succeed,” said Alice Chang, CEO and Founder of Perfect Corp. “As we see in these results, AI is becoming more crucial than ever for effectively engaging consumers and addressing their evolving preferences for personalization. Perfect Corp.’s solutions can support brands in creating seamless, personalized, and innovative shopping experiences that delight customers this holiday season and beyond.”
A Shift Toward Hybrid Shopping Experiences
In addition to the rise of AI and virtual shopping tools, 60% of consumers prefer a blend of in-store and online shopping. This hybrid approach offers the best of both worlds, with the convenience of online browsing paired with the expert assistance and tactile experiences available in physical stores. However, online shopping still presents challenges: 34% of consumers cited the inability to try on products as a key pain point, 22% struggled with complicated return processes, and 15% found themselves overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices available.
Despite these challenges, consumers continue to prioritize personalized shopping experiences. Tailored product recommendations, interactive tools, and AI-driven features are becoming essential for helping shoppers navigate the vast selection of products available to them. With the rise of personalized technology, shoppers expect more efficient and engaging ways to find exactly what they want.
Conclusion
The 2024 holiday season is poised to be defined by a stronger focus on personalization, AI integration, and value-driven purchasing. Consumers are embracing both online and in-store experiences, and brands that leverage AI-powered tools to offer personalized, seamless interactions will be best positioned to meet their expectations. Perfect Corp.’s survey reveals the growing importance of AI and personalization in shaping the future of retail, as consumers continue to demand shopping experiences that are both tailored to their needs and easy to navigate.
