Retailers like Target and Dollar General are freezing prices on back-to-school (BTS) essentials despite inflation concerns, with total projected spending declining to $30.9 billion, down from $31.3 billion last year. The 2025 Deloitte Back-to-School Survey highlights shifting consumer behavior, where 21% plan to shop at resale stores, reflecting a growing trend towards thrifting for savings. Retailers have stockpiled inventory to counteract tariffs and maintain supply levels, while also utilizing AI-driven tools to enhance product discovery for consumers. This BTS season, AI is becoming integral to shopping, with 33% of parents using generative AI to find deals. In response to economic uncertainties, mass merchants are capturing a larger share of BTS shoppers, with 83% planning to shop at these retailers. As brands adjust to changing purchasing patterns, their success hinges on effective pricing strategies and innovative solutions that cater to evolving consumer preferences.
Source link
