# Global holiday consumer spending trends

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/global-holiday-consumer-spending-trends
> Updated: 2026-10-27T06:00:00.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

Projections for the 2026 holiday season indicate an increase in consumer spending across different regions despite ongoing economic pressures such as inflation and economic uncertainty.

In the United States, the National Retail Federation forecasts a 4.2% rise in retail sales compared to 2025. Economists have identified a “K-shaped” spending pattern, where growth is primarily driven by higher earners while lower-income consumers face greater economic turbulence. To accommodate this demand, retailers are expected to hire between 325,000 and 375,000 seasonal workers.

In France, studies suggest consumers plan to increase budgets for gifts and Christmas meals. To manage rising costs, approximately 14% of respondents are considering consumer credit, a figure that has doubled from 7% in 2025. Additionally, nearly one-third of consumers intend to use installment payment methods, and 80% plan to modify shopping habits by utilizing promotions like Black Friday.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-27: French holiday spending projected to rise despite inflation

French consumers plan to increase holiday spending for 2026, with gift budgets rising to 252 euros and meal budgets to 180 euros, despite inflation and increased reliance on credit.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/french-holiday-spending-projected-to-rise-despite-inflation

### 2026-10-20: National Retail Federation forecasts 4.2% rise in holiday spending

The National Retail Federation predicts a 4.2% increase in holiday retail spending, driven by high earners despite inflation and rising costs.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/national-retail-federation-forecasts-42-rise-in-holiday-spending

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Cite as: Global holiday consumer spending trends. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/global-holiday-consumer-spending-trends