When we surveyed consumers in December 2024 about their spending expectations for
2025, the economic landscape was already complicated. As our findings will show, inflation and potential tariff impacts were top of mind, with many indicating measured plans. At the time, future outlooks were mixed—some shoppers were carefully optimistic, while others braced for financial pressure. Consumer sentiment was painted with uncertainty.

It’s important to acknowledge that since then, consumer confidence has dropped fast.
In February 2025, sentiment took a sharp plunge, marking the third month-over-month
decline and biggest monthly dive since 2021. Economic uncertainty has only grown, and it’s likely that many consumers are taking a harder look at their spending plans.

Read on to see what was driving shoppers’ expectations heading into this year, and how
these insights might still hold clues for the months ahead.

Download the white paper to learn more.