CNET Finds Nearly 1 In 3 US Adults Plan To Shop Early Holiday Sales. Will Deals Help Smaller Budgets?

Nearly one-third (32%) of U.S. adults plan to begin holiday shopping before November, while 27% expect to take advantage of early holiday sales, according to CNET's annual holiday shopping survey. Consumers planning to purchase tech products or services expect to spend an average of $808, down $123 from last year, as higher everyday costs squeeze holiday budgets. Although 73% of shoppers plan to buy tech products or services, toys (30%) and kitchen items (25%) are among the most popular planned purchases. Meanwhile, 84% anticipate shopping frustrations, including misleading discounts (43%) and products selling out quickly (39%).

The findings create opportunities for electronics retailers, toy stores, appliance and kitchenware retailers, department stores, discount retailers, refurbished electronics dealers and other holiday-focused businesses. Sellers can encourage advertisers to promote early sales, genuine discounts, affordable gift alternatives and product availability to attract budget-conscious shoppers who are planning purchases carefully and looking for value.