Holiday shopping is reaching new heights, with mobile spending to hit an all-time high. As Thanksgiving kicked off, consumers flocked to mobile apps and devices to snag deals. Adobe Analytics reported that mobile transactions could surpass $128.1 billion in November and December, marking a 12.8% increase from last year.
The shift reflects growing comfort with mobile technology and the convenience of shopping from home.
Gen Z leads the mobile spending surge
Gen Z shoppers are driving the trend. These tech natives are adept at using their phones to compare prices and shop efficiently. “Everyone in the US seems to be shopping from their smartphone,” said Minkyung Kim, an assistant professor of marketing at Carnegie Mellon University.
From November 1 to November 24, mobile devices generated $39.9 billion in online sales, up 13.3% year-over-year, according to Adobe Analytics. This sharp rise reflects consumers’ preference for shopping on their phones, tablets, and laptops to avoid crowds and long lines. By December, mobile spending is expected to surpass last year’s record of $113 billion.
The convenience of shopping from home continues to drive mobile spending. Avoiding crowded stores and long lines, particularly on Black Friday, has made mobile devices an appealing choice for many shoppers. Apps from retailers like Amazon and Nordstrom simplify the shopping process and often offer exclusive discounts, encouraging repeat purchases.
Retailers adapt to mobile-first behavior
Retailers are capitalizing on this trend by enhancing their mobile apps and websites. Surf apparel brand Roxy revealed that 60% of its web traffic comes from mobile devices, with app users spending more than those on its mobile website.
Amazon, a leader in mobile commerce, is also driving mobile spending. The company launched Amazon Haul, an app-exclusive low-price store featuring budget-friendly items.
Mobile shopping isn’t limited to small items. Salesforce reports that shoppers are increasingly comfortable making high-ticket purchases on their phones. Improved product descriptions and mobile-friendly websites are building trust in large transactions, a trend retailers are eager to expand.
This season’s mobile spending all-time high is part of a larger shift toward digital shopping. Consumers are increasingly turning to their devices for speed, ease, and exclusive deals.
