2016 Retail Holiday Planning Playbook

The best gifts, as we all know, stem from strong relationships, personal knowledge and more than a little creativity.

As it turns out, so do the best holiday gift-giving seasons.

Despite the year’s somewhat deflationary retail environment overall, holiday sales saw solid growth in 2015.

Consumers happily shopped online, with many “very satisfied” with the experience.

Bricks-and-mortar stores created unique experiences.

And technology has continued to allow innovative ways to build loyalty, increase delivery options and provide visibility into inventory.

Looking ahead to 2016, it’s clear that retailers are getting better at understanding shoppers’ needs, wants and desires.

The gifts just keep on giving.

This second annual Retail Holiday Planning Playbook takes a closer look at what’s been and what just might be ahead. Incorporating data from numerous key surveys and examples from a variety of retailers, it highlights the eHoliday retailer survey and the insight of NRF’s CIO, CMO, Loss Prevention, Digital and Supply Chain councils for a holistic view.

NRF would like to extend a hearty thanks to Prosper Insights & Analytics™ for the annual pre- and post-holiday consumer surveys, in addition to the research it conducts throughout the year such as the Prosper Insights & Analytics™ Consumer Survey.

What readers loved about last year's Retail Holiday Planning Playbook:

“I think the layout and design, combined with the NRF’s role as the voice of the industry, makes for a highly referenceable, credible report.” - Jason Wilson, Mi9 Retail

“Every inch of it?” - Scott Remmers, Brea Bead Works

“Easy to follow, beautiful, a lot of details.” - Michelle F.

This report combines the consumer view and retailer perspective on key topics, with survey data and insights from retailers that are doing interesting things to engage with consumers and drive sales.

Use this free resource to tee up company-wide conversations about marketing and promotions, operations, fulfillment and more.