Survey Shows Metro Detroiters Plan to Support Local Businesses This Holiday Season

Michigan consumers are prioritizing the support of local businesses this holiday season, according to a recent survey conducted by Accenture.

“6 in 10 [consumers] plan to shop with their local retailers in Detroit,” says Lori Zuminkle, the North American retail leader for Accenture.

Accenture aims to help organizations gain insight into the digital economy. As part of their 2020 Holiday Shopping survey, 500 consumers from metro Detroit were asked questions regarding how and where they plan to do most of their seasonal shopping this year.

Zuminkle also says the survey demonstrates how the coronavirus has adjusted spending trends. 

“Ecommerce is booming. We saw that when COVID hit in March — the drastic incline in e-commerce purchases — and we’re continuing to see that growth,” says Zuminkle. “Metro Detroiters are slightly above the average; majority 78% so that they will do some other shopping online, where 63% said they would do some in-store.”

As COVID-19 continues to spread and less in-person shopping is being conducted, Zuminkle says shopping near home will continue to help local economies stay afloat. “If there are local retailers that you really want to make sure stick around… Really support your local retailers and support them through this holiday season.”

Retailers tried to spread out promotions throughout November as a way to drive traffic early to ensure they could fulfill orders. Zuminkle reminds people one of the most important things to remember this holiday season is to shop early to avoid any delays. “Don’t wait. A lot of times, consumers wait until the last minute and they believe they can get everything they want.”