Mall-going but budget-constrained: gen-z shoppers shape the future of retail

Gen Z's Retail Revolution: Shoppers Weigh Value Over Price Tag

As Christmas approaches, retailers are bracing themselves for a challenging shopping season. Gen Z shoppers, born between 1997 and 2012, are shaping the future of retail with their budget-conscious habits, prioritizing value over price tags. With an expected spending power of nearly $12 trillion by 2030, this generation is putting pressure on retailers to adapt to their changing needs.

One key driver of Gen Z's shopping behavior is the desire for experiences rather than just buying products. For many, malls have become social hubs where friends can meet, window-shop, and participate in events. The American Dream mall in New Jersey has capitalized on this trend by hosting musicians like the Jonas Brothers and K-pop stars like Hwasa and Taemin.

Retailers are responding to Gen Z's demands for connection and community by curating a collection of retailers that cater to their interests. This includes luxury brands, affordable options like Zara and Primark, and even small businesses. However, price remains a major concern, with many Gen Z shoppers seeking "dupes" – cheaper lookalikes of expensive products.

A study found that 82% of Gen Zers plan to purchase dupes, which are not counterfeit goods but rather products resembling an expensive item at a more affordable price. While some appreciate the thrill of the hunt for these deals, others prefer to gift homemade items or experiences instead of buying brand-name products.

For this generation, value goes beyond just the cost of a product. They care deeply about sustainability and social concerns behind a purchase. However, they are not willing to pay more for it. As one Gen Z shopper explained, "As much as I tell other people to shop with brands who are sustainable and from small businesses, I don't have the means to do it myself."

Retailers must adapt to this changing landscape by prioritizing emotional connections with customers and offering experiences that build loyalty. According to Neil Saunders, retail analyst at GlobalData Retail, "It's not just about selling products; it's about selling emotions." As Gen Z becomes increasingly selective with their spending, retailers will need to focus on creating a more thoughtful approach to connecting with this generation.

With a significant portion of Gen Z shoppers prioritizing experiences over products, malls are becoming hubs for social activity. However, the pressure on retailers to adapt to these changing shopping habits will be intense. As Saunders warned, "If you don't understand Gen Z and you're not capturing their loyalty or attention, you are storing up problems for the next 10 to 20 years."

I'm all about those dupes right now! Like, who needs original prices when you can score a similar product at like 50% off? It's all about finding that sweet spot between quality and affordability. But on a more serious note, it's crazy to think that this generation is shaping the future of retail with their values. Sustainability and social concerns are super important to them, but they're not willing to shell out extra cash for it. Retailers need to step up their game and focus on building those emotional connections with customers. Like, let's be real, experiences over products - who doesn't love a good Instagram-worthy shopping trip?

I mean, can't say I'm surprised . Like, Gen Z's always been about being budget-savvy, especially when it comes to shopping. They're not afraid to get creative and hunt down those "dupes" – cheaper versions of the good stuff.

But what really gets me is how value has expanded beyond just price points. Sustainability, social concerns... these are all important factors for this generation. And let's be real, who doesn't want to feel like they're making a difference when they're shopping?

Malls becoming social hubs, huh? Not bad idea . Retailers need to adapt and focus on creating experiences that build loyalty. It's not just about selling stuff; it's about building emotions . Can't say I blame Gen Z for being selective with their spending. They're the future, after all .

The way Gen Z is killing it in retail is crazy ! They're all about value over price tags, and I get it - $12 trillion by 2030 is a lot of shopping power . But what's up with their desire for experiences instead of just buying stuff? It's like they want to create memories over just accumulating products . And let's be real, who can blame them? Malls are becoming social hubs and it's awesome to see luxury brands teaming up with affordable options and small businesses .

But here's the thing - Gen Z is super picky about sustainability and social concerns, which I think is amazing. They're not just about throwing money at a product; they care about the impact too . And yeah, who doesn't love finding "dupes" for expensive products? It's like a treasure hunt!

Retailers need to step up their game and focus on creating emotional connections with customers. As Neil Saunders said, it's not just about selling products, but about selling emotions . If they don't adapt, they'll be left behind .

man i'm all about that layout tho like what's up with retail these days? gen z is all about value over price tag, but at the same time they want experiences and connections too it's crazy how much pressure retailers are under to adapt to this generation's shopping habits. i feel like some malls are killing it by hosting events and concerts but others are still stuck in the old days of just focusing on selling products. gotta give it up to gen z for being real about what they want - sustainability, social concerns, and all that jazz . retailers need to step up their game and prioritize emotional connections with customers if they wanna stay relevant

omg i feel u , being a student on a tight budget is like the ultimate stress ppl r always talkin about how much they wanna support small businesses but it's hard when you gotta pay rent first gen z shoppers r all about findin those dupes tho it's like we're tryna be thrifty but also stay woke to sustainability and social causes but idk how malls can keep makin ppl feel connected and not just another faceless shopper at the same time

Gen Z's taking over retail and it's lowkey crazy . They want value for money, but not just any value, they wanna feel connected to the brand and community too . It's all about experiences now, not just buying stuff . They're like "Hey, I'll take that $10 t-shirt over that $50 one any day" . Retailers need to step up their game and make shopping feel less like a chore and more like a vibe . And btw, those dupes are EVERYTHING .

I'm low-key obsessed with how Gen Z is changing retail . Like, they're not just looking for a good deal, but an experience too . I mean, who wouldn't want to shop at a mall that hosts musicians? It's like, the ultimate social hub! But seriously, retailers need to get with the times and focus on building emotional connections with their customers. It's not just about selling products, it's about selling emotions .

And can we talk about sustainability for a sec? Gen Z cares deeply about the impact of their purchases, but they're not willing to pay more for it . I get it, I really do. As someone who's always on the lookout for affordable, eco-friendly options, I know how hard it is to find something that checks all those boxes.

Retailers need to adapt and prioritize value over price tags . It's time to think outside the box (or product packaging) and create experiences that build loyalty . If you don't get on board with this Gen Z revolution, you're going to be left behind .

So I think it's pretty interesting that Gen Z is all about value over price tags now. Like, they want experiences and connections with other people, not just stuff . It makes sense that they'd prioritize shopping at places that feel like a community hub, you know? And yeah, sustainability and social concerns are important to them too - it's not just about the cost of something .

But at the same time, I get why some of them would still want affordable options or "dupes" . Like, who hasn't looked for cheaper alternatives when they're on a budget? And it's cool that some brands are starting to offer more sustainable and small business-friendly options - that's definitely a step in the right direction .

The thing is, though, retailers need to get on board with this new way of thinking about shopping. It's not just about selling stuff, but about creating emotional connections with customers too . And if they don't adapt, they might be left behind... like, for a long time .

I've been seeing a lot of brands trying to go sustainable but still keep prices low, it's like they think they can have it both ways . Newsflash: Gen Z isn't buying (no pun intended) on that! They want authenticity and value, not just a pretty green logo.

Malls are actually kinda cool again now, I mean who doesn't love a good music festival? But seriously, the duping trend is real and it's not just about saving money. It's about being smart consumers and finding ways to spend their cash without breaking the bank .

Retailers need to step up their game if they wanna keep Gen Z happy. It's not just about selling stuff, it's about creating experiences that people will actually remember . Otherwise, they'll be stuck with a bunch of overpriced products and a bunch of unhappy customers .

shopping is all about vibes now , value over price tag makes total sense . malls have become social hubs where friends meet and stuff . retailers need to adapt to gen z's needs , prioritize emotional connections and experiences that build loyalty . 82% planning to buy dupes? no wonder they're all about finding those sneaky deals ! sustainability and social concerns are a must , but price remains the biggest concern . it's not just about selling products, it's about selling emotions . malls will be hubs for social activity, but intense pressure on retailers is coming

Gen Z's influence is HUGE right now! I think retailers need to focus on creating experiences beyond just buying products. It's all about building connections with customers & making them feel valued Not just about selling stuff, but selling emotions too . They care about sustainability & social concerns, but they're not willing to pay more for it They want to find dupes – cheaper alternatives that are still awesome It's up to retailers to understand Gen Z's vibe and adapt their strategies If they don't, they'll be stuck in the past

Retailers need to step up their game if they wanna appeal to Gen Z's values . It's all about creating a connection with customers on an emotional level, rather than just pushing cheap prices. These young shoppers want to experience something, whether it's shopping with friends or discovering new artists at the mall . They're not as concerned with saving a buck as they are with feeling good about their purchases . Retailers need to focus on sustainability and social responsibility too – Gen Z won't compromise on that! If they don't get it right, they risk losing out on this massive $12 trillion market .

I'm so done with this holiday season . I mean, have you seen those prices on Black Friday? it's like, hello, I know they're trying to make some cash but can't we just chill? Gen Z is all about experiences now and I get it, malls are the place to be for socializing and whatnot. But let's be real, $12 trillion by 2030 is a whole lotta money and retailers need to step up their game if they wanna keep up. It's not just about price tags anymore, people want to know that their purchase is gonna make a difference. I love how Gen Z is all about sustainability and supporting small businesses, but let's be real, it's hard on the wallet . Retailers need to get creative if they wanna win this generation over!

I'm totally feeling this Gen Z trend! As a parent, I've seen my kids get so into online shopping and social media, it's crazy how much value they put on experiences over just buying stuff. For them, it's not just about the price tag, but also about whether it's sustainable and good for people (I'm loving this eco-friendly vibe ). They want to support small businesses and brands that align with their values.

But what I find really interesting is how they're always on the lookout for "dupes" – cheaper alternatives of high-end products. Like, who has time to hunt around for those? My kid's friends are always swapping shopping tips and sharing deals online, it's like a whole different world!

Retailers need to step up their game and focus on creating emotional connections with customers. It's not just about selling stuff, but about making us feel good when we're shopping (Neil Saunders said it so well - "It's not just about selling products; it's about selling emotions" ). Malls are becoming social hubs, which is awesome, but I hope retailers don't forget that people want value for money and a sense of community.

I'm so done with the way retailers are treating us like our wallets are bottomless . Like, I get it, we're a huge market, but that doesn't mean we'll just keep shelling out cash willy-nilly. We want experiences, not just stuff. And yeah, I know those affordable brands like Zara and Primark can be hit or miss, but "dupes" are the real game-changers here . We're not cheap, we're just smart.

And let's be real, sustainability is a huge deal to us Gen Z'ers . We care about where our money is going and who's behind those products. It's not just about saving a buck; it's about feeling good about what we're buying. Retailers need to step up their game if they want to keep up with us . It's not just about selling stuff, it's about creating connections and experiences that make you wanna come back for more .

I'm low-key obsessed with how Gen Z is revolutionizing retail . Like, they're not just about saving $$$, but also about vibes and experiences . Who knew malls could be social hubs? The American Dream mall's got some serious events lined up . But, let's be real, price tags still sting . Those "dupes" are a win for thrifters like me .

It's interesting that 82% of Gen Zers wanna snag those cheaper alternatives . I get it, budget is tight . However, some people value sustainability and social concerns more than price tags . Retailers need to step up their game and focus on emotional connections with customers . As Neil Saunders said, "It's not just about selling products; it's about selling emotions."

retail is so dead right now gen z is all about value over price like what's the point of buying something that's just gonna end up in a landfill anyway? also i love how they're not afraid to hunt for dupes it's like they're on a mission to find the best deals but at the same time they care about sustainability and social concerns so retailers need to step up their game and prioritize emotional connections with customers too gotta make it feel personal and build loyalty or else

gen z is literally changing the game they want value over price tag and experiences over just buying stuff it's about connecting with customers and building loyalty. retailers need to step up their game and focus on emotions not just selling products. malls are becoming social hubs and that's where retailers should be too, providing events and activities that bring people together. but at the same time, sustainability and social concerns matter too, so finding a balance is key