United States (English)As prices rise and budgets tighten, finding ways to shop smart has become more important than ever. A recent Ipsos Consumer Tracker poll provides valuable insights into how Americans are navigating the world of discounts and payment options to make their dollars go further. From scoring better deals online to exploring flexible payment methods like "Buy Now, Pay Later," the data reveals how consumers are adapting their shopping habits.
Ipsos iSay reveals findings including strategies to enhance your shopping experience, whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping or the tangible benefits of in-store purchases.
72% of Americans believe they can get better discounts online.
Finding the Best Deals: Online vs. In-Store
A majority, over two-thirds of Americans (72%), believe they can score steeper discounts online, compared to at brick-and-mortar stores. Younger Americans are especially more likely to turn to online bargains (18- to 34-year-olds 81%, 35- to 54-year-olds 75%), compared to those aged 55 and over (62%).
Despite this perceived advantage to online shopping, almost half of Americans (48%) still report that they’ve been seeing more sales in stores lately. So, if you're looking to save some serious cash, checking for online deals and shopping in-store sales could both be great options!
Exploring Payment Options: Buy Now, Pay Later
“Buy Now, Pay Later,” or BNPL, is a newer payment option that lets shoppers divide their purchases into a series of no-interest payments, with the first due at checkout. The Ipsos survey found that over a third of Americans (35%) are more likely to buy something if a store offers a "buy now, pay later" option. So, go ahead and spread out the cost of that new outfit or video game over the span of a few weeks.
For parents with kids, buying now and paying later holds an especially great appeal. Just over half (54%) of parents with little ones reported being swayed by this payment flexibility, compared to only one-fourth of those (26%) of those without kids. Clearly, BNPL options can be a simple way to help manage that family budget.
47% of American say they visit shopping malls.
The Enduring Appeal of Shopping Malls: Seems They Aren't Quite Dead (Yet!)
While online shopping might feel like it has taken over the world, malls haven't become a relic of the past just yet. Nearly half of Americans (47%) say they still visit malls, at least occasionally. Interestingly, the top reason for mall visits isn't just about finding deals.
For many (47%), the draw of malls is a specific store they love. Maybe that new sneaker store you've been dying to check out?
Other motivations for visiting malls include wanting to see and try items in person before buying (25%), enjoying the variety of stores and items offered under one roof ( 27%), the convenience of a one-stop shopping experience (24%), and lastly, sales or discounts (31%).
The mall can still be a great place for shopping fun, especially when you're hanging with friends, checking out the latest trends, and grabbing a snack at the food court.
The Takeaway: Smart Shopping Strategies
This Ipsos Consumer Tracker poll provides valuable insights into how Americans shop. Understanding these trends and the growing popularity of "Buy Now, Pay Later" options can help you reflect on your own shopping habits. Whether you’re an avid online deal-hunter or a fan of the in-store experience, these insights can help you make more informed decisions and stretch your budget further.
How do your strategies for finding deals and managing payments compare to those discussed above?
Go forth and shop smartly! We also encourage you to share your valuable opinions on shopping, trends, and more by taking Ipsos iSay surveys.
The Ipsos research shared in this article has been sourced from: https://www.ipsos.com/en-us/news-polls/consumer-behavior-time-covid-19
