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  • Writer's pictureErin West

The Impact of the Holiday Season on Consumer Behavior

Updated: Mar 29

In the United States, the holiday season is generally considered to be the time at the end of the calendar year, after Thanksgiving. The holiday season includes at least two major holidays: Christmas and New Year's Day.


Step 1. Before you read.

Look at the words below; which words/ phrases don't you know?


  • to experience a considerable shift

  • to anticipate

  • a surge in...

  • to be more willing to splurge on...

  • a spike in...

  • to miss out on a good deal

  • to experience a substantial rise in...

  • to tap into...


Step 2. Before you read.

Match the words/ phrases with their definitions.

1. to experience a considerable shift

A. to be ready to spend a larger amount of money than usual

2. to anticipate

B. to change significantly

3. a surge in ...

C. to make use of something

4. to be more willing to splurge on ...

D. to expect something to happen

5. a spike in ...

E. a sudden significant and often rapid increase in something; here: same as "a surge in smth"

6. to miss out on a good deal

F. to go through a significant increase in something

7. to experience a substantial rise in ...

G. to not take advantage of an opportunity to get something at a lower price

8. to tap into ...

H. a sudden significant and often rapid increase in something; here: same as "a spike in smth"


Step 3. Before you read.

Listen to the words/ phrases from Step 2.




Step 4. Enjoy reading the article.

Read the article, and pay attention to the words/ phrases in bold.


The Impact of the Holiday Season on Consumer Behavior


The holiday season isn't just a time for festive decorations and gift-giving; it's the time when consumer habits experience considerable shifts that businesses eagerly anticipate.


One key aspect is the surge in spending. Consumers are more willing to splurge on gifts for loved ones during this time. Retailers enjoy a holiday spike in sales, which creates a significant revenue boost for businesses.


Another important factor is the urgency created by limited-time holiday promotions and sales. The fear of missing out on a good deal increases the sense of urgency; it encourages consumers to purchase quickly and subsequently leads to more impulsive buying behavior.


Let's not forget about online shopping. Nowadays, many consumers opt for the convenience of shopping from the comfort of their homes. E-commerce experiences a substantial rise in popularity during the holiday season.


The emotional aspect of the holidays is another crucial point to consider. Brands that tap into the sentimental and nostalgic aspects of the season often resonate more deeply with consumers. Marketing campaigns that create feelings of warmth, joy, and togetherness tend to leave a lasting impression.


Tell us a few things about your spending habits during the holiday season. Drop your answers in the comments section below.



Step 5. Finally ...

Tell us a few things about your spending habits during the holiday season. Drop your answers in the comments section below.



HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!


 

Answers

Step 2.

1B

2D

3H

4A

5E

6G

7F

8C




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