Survey: Speedy Delivery Top Of Mind For Holiday Shoppers

Shoppers these days expect a variety of perks from retailers, and shipping is at the top of that list, according to Deloitte’s 31st annual holiday survey of consumer spending intentions and trends, released Thursday. Deloitte said 42% of shoppers consider three- to four-day shipping “fast” – a significant drop from the 63% who said so last year. Rather, 83% of shoppers now consider “fast” shipping to mean delivery within two days. Free shipping is also important: 71% plan to take advantage of free shipping opportunities this season. Deloitte’s study found little enthusiasm for Black Friday, with just over half of shoppers (52%) saying they won’t rely on those deals as much as they used to, and 42% saying the same thing about Cyber Monday. Less than a quarter of shoppers say they’ll do their holiday shopping before Thanksgiving, and 34% say they’ll shop between Thanksgiving and the end of November. In addition, 43% plan to shop in December and January. Read more at Retail Dive.