Apparel, books, cds, video games to be hot items this year

Though the majority of consumers have not even put a dent in their shopping list, traditional winter apparel and personal, inexpensive items like DVDs, CDs and books will be the first things they stock up on as they begin their holiday shopping. According to NRF’s 2008 Holiday Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by BIGresearch, 72.0 percent of consumers have completed less than 10 percent of their shopping, compared with 2.2 percent of shoppers who say they have completely finished.

“Americans may be hesitant to purchase expensive gifts this holiday season, but personal and practical gifts will resonate most with shoppers this year,” said NRF President and CEO Tracy Mullin. “Though many companies have already been featuring substantial sales and discounts, retailers may still have a few tricks up their sleeves to attract and entice holiday shoppers.”

The survey found that consumers will shop in similar gift categories as last year, with clothing and accessories (57.4%) and books, CDs, DVDs and video games (55.6%) topping the list. Other popular gifts will include new game systems, Blu-ray DVD players and other electronic items (30.0%), toys (41.6%), gift cards/gift certificates (53.5%), personal care or beauty items (20.8%) and jewelry (19.3%). – Courtesy of National Retail Federation.

Copy the Story Link