As we navigate through 2025, the retail landscape is transforming unprecedentedly. A significant proportion of U.S. consumers now utilize online shopping, however in-store shopping amongst customers remains the favored method for most American consumers, with retail spending in Q3 2024 totaling $1.852 trillion, of which 15.6% came from e-commerce. Nevertheless, the preference varies by age group; 59% of global consumers favor online shopping, with millennials showing the highest inclination at 63%, while 54% of baby boomers prefer shopping in physical stores. For marketers, understanding the latest statistics and trends is crucial to staying ahead of the curve. Here, we’ve compiled 40 compelling retail statistics that every marketer should know this year. Let's dive into the numbers and trends shaping the retail industry.
US Retail Sales
- US Retail Sales Reach $627.92 Billion
As of the latest data, US retail sales stand at $627.92 billion, marking an increase of 0.86% from last month and a 4.09% rise from a year ago. This reflects steady growth in consumer spending. (Source) - Monthly Increase in Retail Sales
In September 2024, US retail sales grew by 0.4% month-over-month, surpassing market expectations. This consistent growth indicates a robust retail market. (Source)
Global Retail Trends
- Global Retail Sales Hit $29.29 Trillion
In 2023, worldwide retail sales reached a staggering $29.29 trillion, a 3.87% increase from 2022. E-commerce contributed 19.9% of this total, underscoring the importance of online shopping. (Source) - Online Shopping Revenue Climbs to $5.82 Trillion
Global online shopping revenue was valued at $5.82 trillion in 2023, reflecting a 10.0% year-over-year growth. This trend shows the increasing shift towards e-commerce. (Source)
Leading Retailers
- Walmart Dominates the US Market
Walmart continues to be the largest retailer in the US, maintaining its dominance with steady growth in sales and a significant share of global sales. Amazon follows closely, expanding its presence rapidly. (Source)
Future of Retail
- Personalization Skyrockets with AI
By 2025, the use of AI and machine learning to personalize shopping experiences is expected to explode. Over 80% of retail executives predict adopting AI-powered automation tools by 2027. (Source) - Hybrid Shopping Takes Center Stage
Consumers will continue to blend online and offline shopping experiences, favoring retailers who can integrate digital and in-store experiences seamlessly. (Source)
Consumer Preferences
- Wellness Products in High Demand
Around 80% of consumers plan to purchase wellness products in 2025, highlighting the growing focus on health, fitness, and overall well-being. (Source)
Monthly Retail Updates
- November 2024 Sales Report
The advance estimates for November 2024 show US retail and food services sales at $724.6 billion, a 0.7% increase from the previous month and up 3.8% from November 2023. (Source)
Emerging Trends
- Sustainability as a Top Priority
Sustainability is becoming a core business model, with retailers implementing carbon footprint tracking and offering climate-impact scores on products. (Source) - Rise of Same-Day Delivery
Same-day and instant delivery services are on the rise, catering to consumer demands for faster and more convenient shopping experiences. (Source) - Voice Commerce Growing
With advancements in AI, voice commerce is expected to become a significant shopping channel, offering hands-free convenience to consumers. (Source)
Detailed Insights and Trends
- Generative AI for Personalization
Generative AI is transforming retail by offering hyper-personalized shopping experiences. Retailers like Walmart and Albert Heijn are already utilizing AI to enhance customer engagement. (Source) - Supply Chain Transparency
Consumers in 2025 are demanding transparency in supply chains. Retailers are turning this into a competitive advantage by showcasing their sourcing and sustainability practices. (Source)
E-Commerce Evolution
- Social Commerce Takes Off
Platforms like TikTok Shop and Instagram Shopping are redefining retail by transitioning from mere marketing channels to significant revenue streams. (Source) - Second-Hand Luxury Market Expands
The resale market for luxury goods is booming, with major brands like Ikea, Levi’s, and Zara launching their own resale platforms. (Source)
Technological Innovation
- Virtual Retail Experiences
Virtual dressing rooms and 3D product inspections are enhancing the digital shopping experience, making it more immersive and practical. (Source) - AI in Inventory and Customer Service
AI is playing a crucial role in inventory management and customer service, helping retailers predict disruptions and offer personalized assistance. (Source)
Workforce and Operations
- Reskilling Retail Workforce
The retail workforce is evolving to meet new challenges, with a focus on digital tools and customer experience management. Reskilling programs are becoming essential. (Source) - Autonomous Retail Operations
The proliferation of cashierless stores and automated warehouses is becoming more common, driven by advances in technology and AI. Amazon's Just Walk Out technology is a notable example of this trend. (Source) - Climate-Conscious Retail
Sustainability in retail is evolving from a trend to a business model, with retailers integrating environmental impact metrics into their pricing and business strategies. (Source)
Consumer Behavior and Preferences
- Hybrid Shopping Preferences
Consumers prefer a blend of online and offline interactions, pushing retailers to create seamless omnichannel experiences. (Source) - Increased Demand for Frictionless Delivery
Consumers are increasingly expecting smooth and efficient delivery services, promoting the importance of logistics and delivery optimization. (Source) - Inspiration-Led Purchase Journeys
Consumers seek inspiration-led purchase journeys, driving retailers to create experiences that blend discovery with easy purchasing. (Source)
Detailed Retail Statistics
- Significant Growth in Nonstore Retailers
Nonstore retailers saw a 9.8% increase in sales from November 2023, underlining the rapid growth of e-commerce and online marketplaces. (Source) - Motor Vehicle and Parts Dealers Sales Jump
Sales for motor vehicle and parts dealers rose by 6.5% from the previous year, showing sustained interest and purchases in the automotive sector. (Source) - Retail Trade Sales Increase
Retail trade sales in November 2024 increased by 0.9% from October, highlighting the continuing strength of consumer spending. (Source) - Retail Trade Sales Year-Over-Year Increase
Sales in retail trade saw a 4.1% increase from the previous year, indicating robust year-over-year growth. (Source)
International Retail Market
- Cross-Border Commerce Expansion
The rise of cross-border commerce is a significant trend, as more retailers explore global markets and consumers seek products from international vendors. (Source)
Technology and Automation
- AI-Powered Customer Insights
Retailers are leveraging AI to gain deeper customer insights and drive personalized marketing strategies. AI systems are creating dynamic pricing models and tailor-made loyalty programs. (Source) - Adoption of Self-Operating Stores
The trend of autonomous retail stores continues to grow, with technology such as self-checkout systems and automated stocking ensuring efficiency and convenience. (Source)
Workforce Trends
- Emphasis on Digital Skills
With the integration of advanced technologies, the retail workforce is evolving. Employees are being trained in digital skills, enhancing customer service and operational efficiency. (Source)
Evolving Retail Strategies
- Omnichannel Retailing
Combining online and offline experiences is key to success, as consumers demand more seamless shopping experiences across all platforms. (Source) - Retail Media and Influencer Marketing
Retailers are increasing their investments in retail media and influencer marketing as consumers place greater trust in peer reviews and social media recommendations. (Source)
Consumer Trends
- Focus on Wellness and Fitness Products
The market for wellness and fitness products is booming, with an increasing number of consumers prioritizing their health and well-being. (Source) - Social Commerce Growth
Social commerce continues to gain traction, with platforms like TikTok Shop and Instagram Shopping leading the charge in reshaping how consumers shop. (Source)
Retail Innovation
- Rise of Resale Luxury Markets
The second-hand luxury market is expanding, with mainstream brands entering the resale space to meet consumer demand for sustainable and affordable luxury goods. (Source) - Experiential Virtual Shopping
VR and AR are enhancing online shopping experiences, providing consumers with interactive and immersive ways to engage with products. (Source)
Sustainability in Retail
- Implementing Circular Economy Models
Retailers are increasingly adopting circular economy models, focusing on sustainability by recycling and reusing products to minimize waste. (Source) - Climate-Responsive Pricing Strategies
Some retailers are experimenting with climate-responsive pricing where product costs are adjusted based on their environmental impact, promoting eco-friendly purchasing decisions. (Source)
