#USA #Boston #Product Management #Consumer Trust #Akeneo

Consumers Seek Clarity and Trust During the 2025 Holiday Season

As we approach the 2025 holiday shopping season, insights from Akeneo's latest PX Pulse survey shed light on significant shifts in consumer behavior. An overwhelming majority—83% of shoppers—indicated they would abandon their carts if faced with unexpected fees. This statistic underscores a growing demand for transparency and detailed product information as shoppers navigate a challenging economic landscape.

Economic Pressures Influence Consumer Expectations

With rising costs and economic uncertainties looming, shoppers have heightened their expectations from brands and retailers. According to the survey, detailed product descriptions, reliable user reviews, and accurate stock availability are paramount as consumers seek guidance for their purchase decisions. This year, the shopping experience is no longer just about discounts; it’s about delivering trustworthy and comprehensive information that aligns with the consumers' values and needs.

Among the key findings, photos emerged as the most valued element for online shoppers, with 62% citing them as their top priority. Meanwhile, 57% place a high value on user reviews, and 46% highlight the importance of information on product availability. As consumer behavior evolves, brands need to ensure consistency and clarity across various channels—be it social media, apps, or third-party platforms—to foster a cohesive shopping experience.

The Role of Transparency in Building Consumer Loyalty

The survey results also reveal that clarity has become a non-negotiable factor for customers. In fact, 83% of respondents stated they would walk away from a purchase if they encountered any unexpected fees at checkout. Furthermore, the study indicated that 65% of consumers have switched brands due to better product information, with 33% admitting to losing loyalty to a brand because of inaccuracies in product details.

This trend illustrates a noticeable decline in customer loyalty as shoppers become increasingly aware of their options. Brands that fail to provide satisfactory product information risk losing their customer base. The message is clear—trust is integral to the shopping experience, and transparency is a major driver of that trust.

Year-Over-Year Shifts in Consumer Spending

The recent economic climate has not only changed consumer expectations but also their spending habits. The survey revealed that 42% of consumers plan to spend less this holiday season compared to last year, driven by tariffs and rising costs. Another 42% expect to maintain their spending levels, resulting in a cautious outlook for the season ahead. Brands offering richer and more transparent experiences stand a greater chance of gaining consumer trust, reducing cart abandonment, and fostering loyalty.

When compared to previous years, shoppers are reporting increased frustration over unclear product descriptions, which has risen from 28% in 2024 to 34% in 2025. Additionally, the number of consumers who switched brands due to better product information has also increased, highlighting a greater scrutiny over product clarity.

Conclusion: The Imperative for Brands

As we navigate the holiday shopping landscape in 2025, it is evident that price remains important, yet shoppers are placing an even higher premium on the quality of information. Romain Fouache, CEO of Akeneo, summarized it well: “Consumers increasingly prioritize value and transparency when making purchase decisions. They want confidence in what they're buying, and clear, accurate, and transparent product information is no longer optional; it’s mandatory.” Brands and retailers that invest in enhancing the product experience will not only gain customer loyalty but also reduce the likelihood of returns and cart abandonment.

Akeneo continues to lead the marketplace as a trailblazer in Product Information Management (PIM), assisting enterprises in creating comprehensive and enriched product experiences critical to meeting modern consumer expectations. As the holiday season unfolds, those brands that lean into transparency and detail will be best positioned to thrive in this evolving marketplace.