One of the main software platforms for Amazon merchants, Helium 10, says it expects to see consumers searching for Halloween and Christmas items as early as July.
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In a new report, the company's analysis indicates consumer spending is expected to be high for Halloween and in the weeks following Black Friday, noting that forecasts for 2022 from The National Retail Federation and Reuters both predict year-over-year growth for retail and online sales despite supply chain problems, labor force issues and persistent inflation.
The report predicts Halloween will be huge, due to both pent-up consumer demand and the holiday's increasing popularity. Searches for "Halloween" have gained traction earlier and earlier, beginning to increase last year starting in July.
Black Friday is predicted to be the start of a marathon for sellers, with increased sales lasting until January — a trend seen for the last three consecutive years. Consumers will only stop buying gifts online when the shipping deadline for Christmas delivery has passed, according to the report. Retail stores will beat the drum early with promotions. Best advice for shoppers: if you see a good deal, buy it. It will not be around for late shopping.