For Gen Z shoppers, it's all about finding value beyond just price tags this holiday season. As the generation's spending power is expected to reach $12 trillion by 2030, retailers must adapt to their increasingly budget-constrained attitudes and shifting values.
Research shows that Gen Zers are more than just price-sensitive consumers; they're looking for emotional connections with brands and experiences that go beyond transactions. For them, shopping isn't just about buying stuff; it's an event that should be enjoyable, social, and perhaps even a way to spend quality time together.
However, this shift in values also means that Gen Zers are more likely to seek out affordable alternatives, including cheaper lookalikes known as "dupes." About 82% of respondents plan to purchase dupes this holiday season, with many using them for gifts or personal purchases. Despite their growing awareness of sustainability and social concerns, Gen Zers are hesitant to pay more for products that align with these values.
In response to these changing shopping habits, malls are evolving into destinations that offer experiences beyond just retail therapy. By curating a collection of retailers, hosting events, and offering membership programs, malls aim to create a sense of community among shoppers.
"It's actually a more thoughtful approach as to how retailers connect with the customer and make them feel part of something," notes Neil Saunders, a retail analyst at GlobalData Retail. "When Gen Z is much more budget-constrained, that connection does make a difference if you can get them to spend with you over another brand."
While brands are still appealing to some Gen Zers, others are opting for homemade gifts or experiences that show they care. For many in this generation, the thought and effort behind a gift are worth more than its monetary value.
As the retail landscape continues to shift, one thing is clear: retailers must be prepared to adapt to Gen Z's changing values and shopping habits if they want to stay relevant in the years to come.
Research shows that Gen Zers are more than just price-sensitive consumers; they're looking for emotional connections with brands and experiences that go beyond transactions. For them, shopping isn't just about buying stuff; it's an event that should be enjoyable, social, and perhaps even a way to spend quality time together.
However, this shift in values also means that Gen Zers are more likely to seek out affordable alternatives, including cheaper lookalikes known as "dupes." About 82% of respondents plan to purchase dupes this holiday season, with many using them for gifts or personal purchases. Despite their growing awareness of sustainability and social concerns, Gen Zers are hesitant to pay more for products that align with these values.
In response to these changing shopping habits, malls are evolving into destinations that offer experiences beyond just retail therapy. By curating a collection of retailers, hosting events, and offering membership programs, malls aim to create a sense of community among shoppers.
"It's actually a more thoughtful approach as to how retailers connect with the customer and make them feel part of something," notes Neil Saunders, a retail analyst at GlobalData Retail. "When Gen Z is much more budget-constrained, that connection does make a difference if you can get them to spend with you over another brand."
While brands are still appealing to some Gen Zers, others are opting for homemade gifts or experiences that show they care. For many in this generation, the thought and effort behind a gift are worth more than its monetary value.
As the retail landscape continues to shift, one thing is clear: retailers must be prepared to adapt to Gen Z's changing values and shopping habits if they want to stay relevant in the years to come.
I think it's so cool that Gen Zers are looking for more than just a good deal when they're shopping. They want to feel like part of something bigger than themselves, you know? Like, they're not just buying stuff, they're investing in memories and experiences. 
It's all about creating those emotional connections with brands and finding value beyond the price tag. And, let's be real, who doesn't love a good "dupe"? 
But, seriously, I think it's awesome that malls are evolving to offer more than just retail therapy. They're becoming community hubs where people can hang out, events can happen, and brands can connect with customers on a deeper level. It's all about creating that sense of belonging and making shopping feel special again! 
. Like, who doesn't love a good event or activity with their friends? It's all about making shopping a fun experience, right? And I'm all for supporting local brands and people when it comes to gifts too - the thought and effort counts way more than just the price tag 
. So yeah, I'm stoked that malls are evolving and retailers are listening to Gen Z's values - it's all about creating a more thoughtful connection with customers 
!
like what even is a "dupe" anymore? a cheaper alternative just 'cause it's trendy isn't gonna cut it for me, i wanna know that the brand i'm supporting cares about more than just raking in the dough 
and honestly it's kinda refreshing to see people prioritizing thought & effort over $$ this holiday season 
. They need to go beyond just being affordable and start creating experiences that bring people together 
. Malls are taking a great step by offering more than just retail therapy, it's about building a community vibe 
. And let's be real, homemade gifts or thoughtful gestures are often way more meaningful than some fancy designer item 
. It's not just about the price tag anymore 
.
anyway, malls are trying their best to be more than just a shopping space by hosting events and offering membership programs. It's cool that they're acknowledging the importance of community and connection with customers. I think it's great that brands are starting to focus on the thought and effort behind gifts too, like that's what really makes something special. Maybe this holiday season will be all about finding value in the experience itself rather than just the price tag 
... like, don't get me wrong, I love a good mall hangout session with friends as much as the next person, but sometimes you just wanna buy some sick new kicks without having to pay an arm and a leg for 'em. And those "dupes" they're talking about? I mean, I've seen some pretty convincing knockoffs in my time, but I'm not sure I'd trust giving them to my grandma as a gift 
Malls are trying to turn themselves into "destinations" with events and membership programs? Give me a break! It's just an excuse for them to charge more for stuff I don't need. And don't even get me started on these "dupes"... Like, what's the point of buying something cheaper if it's just going to be some knockoff that falls apart after one use? 
. A fun event or a members-only program can go a long way in making shoppers feel like part of something special.
malls need to get creative with their events & experiences or else people will just stick to online shopping 
it's not about being expensive, but feeling connected to something bigger 
. and honestly, who wouldn't want a thoughtful gift over something just 'cause it's cheap? 
Still, I guess it's all about being thoughtful and making customers feel valued. Fingers crossed retailers get it right this time 
