French holiday spending projected to rise despite inflation

According to a study by Havas Market and YouGov, French consumers plan to increase their spending for the 2026 holiday season despite economic uncertainty and inflationary pressures. The average budget for gifts is expected to rise to 252 euros, up from 245 euros the previous year, while the average budget for Christmas meals is projected to reach 180 euros, compared to 166 euros in 2025.

Analysts attribute this increase to both mechanical inflationary effects and a desire to maintain traditional festivities. To manage these costs, many consumers are adopting new financial strategies. Approximately 14% of respondents are considering consumer credit to fund their celebrations, a figure that has doubled from 7% in 2025. Additionally, nearly one-third of consumers intend to use deferred or installment payment methods.

To optimize their budgets, 80% of consumers plan to modify their shopping habits. This includes anticipating purchases to take advantage of promotions, such as Black Friday, and some consumers—particularly those under 35—are reportedly turning to artificial intelligence to assist with their shopping decisions. While average spending is rising, 43% of those surveyed still intend to spend less than 200 euros on gifts.