There’s no denying it—consumer buying habits are in constant flux. What people value, want, and choose to spend their money on continues to evolve, driven by shifting social norms, economic pressures, and demographic changes.
On the surface, these shifts might seem like small, individual preferences. But when you step back, they reveal powerful patterns—consumer behavior trends that can redefine industries and determine which brands thrive and which get left behind.
Some trends are short-lived, but others shape entire markets for years to come. In this article, we unpack 20 key consumer trends for 2025 that are set to influence everything from lifestyle choices to purchase drivers. You’ll learn what these trends mean for your business—and how to stay ahead of your audience’s expectations.
But first, let’s take a quick look back at the defining consumer trends from 2024.
Last year, shoppers faced rising prices and responded by tightening their belts. Two in five consumers became laser-focused on finding better deals, and more than 66% sought discounts, coupons, and private label alternatives to stretch their budgets.
Sustainability took center stage. Nearly 30% of consumers aged 35-44 said they were willing to pay a premium for eco-friendly products. Secondhand shopping surged too—44% reported buying pre-owned goods more often. Private labels also gained traction as 17.5% of consumers, particularly younger ones, prioritized value without sacrificing quality.
Younger shoppers showed a greater willingness to share personal data in exchange for personalized experiences. AI-driven tools like machine learning, chatbots, and image recognition became standard in retail—expected to generate $24.1 billion in value by 2028. Clearly, technology is reshaping the shopping experience.
For deeper insights, Intelligence Node’s Consumer Behavior Report 2024 offers a comprehensive breakdown of these shifts and how businesses can adapt.
Now, let’s explore the trends set to define consumer behavior in 2025—and beyond.
Social media has become the new shopping mall. Over 80% of consumers research brands on Instagram, TikTok, and similar platforms before making a purchase. Nearly 70% have already made purchases directly through social channels—30% buy on the very day they discover something new.
Influencers remain incredibly influential. Nearly half of consumers purchase products after seeing them in influencer posts. For Gen Z, influencers are often the most trusted product advisors. Authenticity is key—brands need to collaborate with influencers who genuinely align with their identity.
And don’t overlook Gen Alpha. Though still young, this digital-native generation already has a say in household spending. Brands that build trust with them early on will reap loyalty in the years ahead.
Consumers now expect a seamless experience across multiple channels—social media, e-commerce sites, and physical stores. About 30% use three or more channels before making a purchase decision. Brands can no longer afford to excel in just one space; consistency and integration are essential.
AI is also redefining retail. Personalized recommendations, interactive displays, and custom promotions are becoming the norm. Consumers are eager, with 92% already using or willing to try AI-powered shopping features.
Experiences leave lasting impressions. Virtual try-ons, AR-powered furniture previews, and immersive digital experiences make shopping more engaging—and keep customers coming back.
Transparency is no longer optional. Authentic photos and videos matter—98% of shoppers reject AI-enhanced imagery that feels misleading. If you’re using AI in your content, honesty builds trust.
Representation is also non-negotiable. Shoppers want brands that reflect diverse identities, ages, sizes, and abilities. Over 82% say companies should do more to represent the LGBTQ+ community.
Millennials, in particular, are putting their money where their values are. Nearly 50% prefer brands that prioritize sustainability or take a clear stance on social issues.
Today’s shoppers expect multiple payment options as standard—credit cards, PayPal, and digital wallets are just the basics. Deferred payment models like “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) are booming. Klarna, Afterpay (Clearpay in the UK), and Sezzle are leaders in this space, with Sezzle now the top BNPL provider in Canada.
Consumers are also embracing account-to-account (A2A) payments, with nearly 20% seeking this option for quicker transactions. Open banking is streamlining the checkout process further.
And speed counts. 82% of consumers say they’re more likely to buy from retailers offering same-day delivery. Small businesses are partnering with logistics providers to compete with giants like Amazon and meet these fast delivery expectations.
The subscription model is booming, valued at $3 trillion globally. In the U.S., 86% of consumers subscribe to at least one recurring service. This shift toward ongoing relationships is reshaping how brands approach customer loyalty.
Niche categories are gaining ground, too. For example, the global pet furniture market is worth $1.74 billion as pet owners increasingly invest in premium products for their furry companions.
Health-conscious choices are on the rise. One-third of U.S. consumers prioritize nutritional content when shopping, particularly in the western regions. Reducing sugar and eating more fruits and vegetables are common lifestyle changes.
The mindfulness market is also expanding rapidly, projected to grow from $8.05 billion in 2024 to $18.21 billion by 2028.
Convenience doesn’t end at checkout. Free, hassle-free returns are now expected by over 55% of online shoppers. Speed matters, too—consumers pay attention to how quickly refunds are processed. Nearly 24% also demand clarity on return costs before making a purchase.
Economic headwinds are forcing consumers to be more selective. Quality and value are now top priorities. Many are willing to pay a 9.7% premium for sustainable products, but 30% have stopped buying from brands they feel fall short on ethics or sustainability.
For brands, this is a wake-up call: clear, consistent communication about ethical practices and sustainability efforts is crucial to earning and keeping customer loyalty.
Consumers are increasingly cautious about sharing personal data. Nearly 23% of U.S. internet users refuse to share information online, no matter the incentives. Businesses need to prioritize cybersecurity and be transparent about how they collect and use data. Trust is a powerful competitive advantage.
The retail world in 2025 is fast-moving—and staying competitive means understanding evolving consumer preferences. Success requires more than guesswork; brands need data-driven tools and strategies that deliver results.
From smarter pricing to optimizing digital shelf visibility, Intelligence Node helps retailers and brands make confident decisions backed by real-time insights. Ready to outpace your competition? Schedule a demo today and see how Intelligence Node can elevate your strategy.
Missing an important marketplace?
Send us your request to add it!
