Consumer Insights: AI's Role in Holiday Shopping and the Human Touch

AI in Holiday Shopping: A Blended Approach

As the holiday season approaches, a recent survey by Mall of America has shed light on the evolving landscape of consumer shopping habits, revealing intriguing insights into how artificial intelligence (AI) plays a role in this festive frenzy. The survey, which included responses from over 1,775 shoppers, indicates that while AI is becoming increasingly integrated into shopping plans, traditional sources of gift inspiration remain paramount.

The Survey Findings

About 45% of respondents expressed intentions to utilize AI during their holiday shopping endeavors. The most popular applications include comparing products and prices, with 22% of respondents favoring this approach. Additionally, 18% mentioned they would use AI to uncover deals and promotions. However, the question of where shoppers primarily seek inspiration for gifts told a different story. A striking 50% of those surveyed cited friends and family as their foremost source of gift ideas, followed by 28% who preferred to seek inspiration in stores. Only a mere 1% viewed AI-driven tools as their top choice.

The Emotional Aspect of Gifting

Jill Renslow, the Chief Business Development and Marketing Officer at Mall of America, emphasized the quintessential human experience behind holiday shopping. She noted, “Technology is giving shoppers new ways to plan for the holidays, but there's still something special about discovering the perfect gift in-person and sharing those moments with family and friends.” This sentiment reflects the emotional connection that people maintain with the act of gifting, which transcends mere transactional habits.

A Shift in Spending Attitudes

The survey underscored a continued emphasis on value among consumers. Specifically, 61% stated they would actively look for more deals and promotions this holiday season, a notable increase from the 53% recorded in 2025. A significant shift was also observed in spending expectations, with only 27% anticipating a reduction in spending compared to 34% in the previous year. Interestingly, 44% expect their spending to remain steady, while 16% plan to increase their holiday outlay.

Experience Beyond Shopping

Consumers are increasingly recognizing that the holiday shopping experience is about more than just making purchases. When respondents were asked what factors would elevate their in-store experience beyond shopping, 26% mentioned the appeal of dining options and seasonal food and drinks, followed closely by 25% who valued the holiday decor and atmosphere. Furthermore, 21% highlighted the importance of spending quality time with family and friends during their shopping excursions.

A Hybrid Shopping Strategy

Moreover, hybrid shopping appears to be a growing trend among consumers. Roughly 68% indicated they would combine both online and in-person shopping strategies this year, compared to 66% in the previous year. This blend of shopping methods indicates a desire for convenience without sacrificing the in-person experience that many still cherish.

Gift Trends for 2026

A minor transition in gift preferences was noted, where technology and electronics emerged as the top categories for 2026, with 26% of survey respondents indicating a willingness to spend in this area. This edged out clothing and footwear at 25%, with toys and games coming in third at 18%. Comparatively, clothing held the top rank in 2025, showcasing the shifting trends as consumer preferences continuously evolve.

Looking Forward

As Mall of America adapts to changing consumer tastes, it remains committed to offering a diverse array of sought-after brands, innovative retail experiences, and festive seasonal activities. This commitment not only encourages new visits but also fosters memorable holiday traditions where families and friends can share moments worth celebrating. This strategy aligns perfectly with their goal of providing the ultimate holiday shopping experience.

Conclusion

This survey illuminates a fascinating dynamic at play within the realm of holiday shopping. While AI is emerging as a helpful tool for price comparisons and deal-finding, the heart of holiday gifting remains rooted in the human experience—connections, moments, and personal interactions. As consumers take to the malls this season, the combination of technology and cherished traditions is set to redefine the holiday shopping landscape.

For more insights on the holiday season at Mall of America, visit Mall of America.