Jewellery is among the most popular gifts that US consumers are looking to buy this holiday season, data from the National Retail Federation (NRF) showed. 

“The holiday season is in full swing and while many consumers have made progress on their shopping lists, most shoppers will make the majority of their purchases over the coming weeks,” NRF Vice President of Industry and Consumer Insights Katherine Cullen said. “Whether shoppers are looking to spread out their purchases or seeking the best deals, retailers are ready to help consumers with all their shopping needs this holiday.”

NRF forecast earlier this month that holiday spending is expected to reach record levels during November and December and will grow between 2.5 per cent and 3.5 per cent, totalling US$979.5 billion to US$989 billion.

A new survey from NRF and Prosper Insights & Analytics revealed that standout gift categories this season include clothing (54 per cent), followed by gift cards (44 per cent), toys (36 per cent), books, video games and other media (31 per cent) and food/candy (30 per cent). 

The internet remains the most popular source for gift ideas, with 44 per cent of shoppers using online search for inspiration. Other top sources include friends and family (36 per cent), in store (30 per cent) and wish lists (26 per cent). 

“Younger shoppers continue to embrace social media for gift ideas, with those between the ages of 18 to 24 more likely to find inspiration through platforms such as TikTok (28 per cent) and Instagram (27 per cent),” Prosper Insights & Analytics Executive Vice President of Strategy Phil Rist said. “These shoppers are also more likely than any other age group to purchase jewellery, with 30 per cent planning to gift these items.”