For Gen Z, shopping isn't just about snagging a deal – it's an immersive experience that combines socializing with friends, discovering new brands, and uncovering hidden gems. The rise of online research and "dupes" – cheaper alternatives that rival high-end products – has transformed the retail landscape, as young shoppers increasingly prioritize value over brand loyalty.
As prices climb and credit card debt becomes a mounting concern, Gen Zers are becoming more discerning consumers. Kelly Pedersen, retail leader at PwC, notes that this generation is "extremely value-oriented" and demands a fundamental shift in how retailers approach customers. With severe credit card delinquency rates outpacing other generations, economic strains have pushed young shoppers to become more selective with their spending.
Retailers must adapt to these changing habits by shifting focus from selling products to creating emotional connections with customers. Neil Saunders, retail analyst at GlobalData Retail, emphasizes that "it's not just about selling products – it's about selling emotions." Any hard sell approach can feel soulless and inauthentic, driving young consumers toward brands or dupes that resonate with them on a deeper level.
The mall, once a dying institution, is experiencing a resurgence thanks to Gen Z's desire for social interaction, experiences, and community. According to Ipsos, approximately 58% of this generation frequently visits malls – not just to shop but also to catch up with friends, attend events, and engage with brands in person.
To capitalize on this trend, retailers are curating a collection of retailers that resonate with Gen Z's values, from luxury labels to affordable options like Zara and Primark. Membership programs and exclusive sales are becoming increasingly popular, as Adam Petrick, chief marketing officer of the American Dream mall, explains: "Shopping should be an event – it should be something people can do together."
Gen Zers like Jonathan Singh, 19, are embracing this shift by researching products extensively online before making a purchase. They're willing to hunt for dupes that offer similar quality at a fraction of the price, with about 82% planning to buy these alternatives.
While sustainability and social concerns remain important, Gen Z is hesitant to pay more for products – unless they're genuinely convinced of their value. As Holly Paik, 21, a crochet business owner, notes: "As much as I tell other people to shop with sustainable brands who are small businesses...I don't have the means to do it myself."
In response, some young shoppers are opting to gift homemade items or experiences instead – valuing the love and care that goes into these gifts over the price tag. As Nicholas Asiedu, 21, an office assistant, remarks: "A gift isn't all about money but rather the love and care you put into it."
As prices climb and credit card debt becomes a mounting concern, Gen Zers are becoming more discerning consumers. Kelly Pedersen, retail leader at PwC, notes that this generation is "extremely value-oriented" and demands a fundamental shift in how retailers approach customers. With severe credit card delinquency rates outpacing other generations, economic strains have pushed young shoppers to become more selective with their spending.
Retailers must adapt to these changing habits by shifting focus from selling products to creating emotional connections with customers. Neil Saunders, retail analyst at GlobalData Retail, emphasizes that "it's not just about selling products – it's about selling emotions." Any hard sell approach can feel soulless and inauthentic, driving young consumers toward brands or dupes that resonate with them on a deeper level.
The mall, once a dying institution, is experiencing a resurgence thanks to Gen Z's desire for social interaction, experiences, and community. According to Ipsos, approximately 58% of this generation frequently visits malls – not just to shop but also to catch up with friends, attend events, and engage with brands in person.
To capitalize on this trend, retailers are curating a collection of retailers that resonate with Gen Z's values, from luxury labels to affordable options like Zara and Primark. Membership programs and exclusive sales are becoming increasingly popular, as Adam Petrick, chief marketing officer of the American Dream mall, explains: "Shopping should be an event – it should be something people can do together."
Gen Zers like Jonathan Singh, 19, are embracing this shift by researching products extensively online before making a purchase. They're willing to hunt for dupes that offer similar quality at a fraction of the price, with about 82% planning to buy these alternatives.
While sustainability and social concerns remain important, Gen Z is hesitant to pay more for products – unless they're genuinely convinced of their value. As Holly Paik, 21, a crochet business owner, notes: "As much as I tell other people to shop with sustainable brands who are small businesses...I don't have the means to do it myself."
In response, some young shoppers are opting to gift homemade items or experiences instead – valuing the love and care that goes into these gifts over the price tag. As Nicholas Asiedu, 21, an office assistant, remarks: "A gift isn't all about money but rather the love and care you put into it."
! Gen Zers are so different from older generations when it comes to shopping. They're not just in it for the discounts, they want an experience too 
. And honestly, who can blame them? Malls are back and it's awesome 
. Retailers need to change their game though, from just selling stuff to creating real connections with customers 
. It's all about building a community and making shopping feel like an event 
. I love how Gen Z is getting creative with gifting too... who needs expensive gifts when you can make something with love yourself? 
I think this shift in shopping habits is a good thing for consumers! With the rise of online research and dupes, people are finally being incentivized to look beyond just brand loyalty. It's refreshing to see young shoppers prioritizing value over price tag. Retailers should take note that it's not just about selling products, but creating an emotional connection with customers.
But are we sacrificing quality for the sake of a cheap deal? It's like when I see someone getting a super nice watch online and I'm all like "is that even worth it?" 
.
! Gen Zers are super smart and don't wanna overspend 
. They're all about finding those cool dupes that offer similar quality at a lower price 
. And, let's be real, who doesn't love trying out new brands and discovering hidden gems? 
and it's so awesome! Young people are loving the social interaction and experiences that come with shopping in person 
. Retailers need to shift their focus from just selling products to creating emotional connections with customers 
. They'd rather gift homemade items or experiences because of the love and care behind them 
.
. It's time to get creative and make shopping an event that people can do together