The Retailer’s Holiday Readiness Guide 2025
The Most Error-Prone Time of the Year…
Twenty percent of the typical retailer’s annual revenue comes from the winter holiday season.
Though the buying frenzy begins early – nearly 40% have started their holiday shopping before November and it intensifies as it goes.
Five day spree: In the 2024 season, 197 million Americans shopped from Thanksgiving Day to Cyber Monday.* From November 1 through the end of 2024, NRF estimates $989 billion in sales. On Cyber Monday alone, Adobe Analytics estimates over $13 billion in online sales, the single biggest day in online shopping ever.
Holiday closers: A full 67% plan to hit the stores immediately after December 25, finishing up the season with pre-planned and last‑minute deals driving a final push for sales.*
The level of activity occurring on a short timeline increases the chance of errors, yet the significance of the period’s revenue to annual totals make it too important to let losses occur.
Tip: Manage the timeline. Set aside time to establish processes and controls well ahead of the rush.
