As the 2025 holiday retail season takes shape, growing numbers of consumers are leaning on artificial intelligence (AI) to navigate deals, find gifts and compare prices in a smarter, more efficient way.
According to a survey by UserTesting of 4,000 consumers across the U.S., U.K. and Australia, one‑third of shoppers plan to use AI tools during their holiday shopping this year.
Younger generations are leading the shift: 44 % of millennials and 42 % of Gen Z respondents say they’ll use chatbots or AI assistants for ideas and deal‑comparison. Among those, 72 % will rely on AI for gift inspiration, 57 % for price comparison and 49 % for product recommendations.
Why it matters for retailers and omnichannel professionals is multi‑fold. First, shoppers now expect brands to deliver not only digital convenience but AI‑enabled personalization — such as chat‑like assistants that ask “what gift for a 16‑year‑old” or “best gadget under $50” and surface tailored suggestions.
Second, this is a wake‑up call for forefront holiday planning: the AI‑influenced shopping journey is becoming part of the new norm, not just a novelty. Research from Klaviyo shows more than half of holiday shoppers will use AI tools to compare prices and search for products over the key Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend.
For local business owners, vendors and regional retail leaders — such as those in Northwest Arkansas and the Bentonville‑area ecosystem — the shift means you may need to rethink how digital and physical channels mesh. If shoppers arrive with AI‑based deal‑comparison in hand, you’ll need to ensure your online presence, pricing transparency and in‑store experience meet their elevated expectations.
In short, the 2025 holiday season isn’t just about discounts and timing — it’s about the smart shopper using AI to drive efficiency. Retailers who integrate AI or support the AI‑informed consumer journey may unlock an edge. Conversely, those that lag risk being outpaced by shoppers who arrive prepared, empowered and digitally enabled.
