As of December 14, 2025, the U.S. retail real estate and business sectors reported robust momentum in holiday shopping, continuing into the second week of December. Both consumer foot traffic and online sales have remained strong, signaling a vibrant retail environment and contributing positively to broader economic indicators for the final quarter of the year. Major shopping districts and malls across the country have experienced a significant uptick in visitation, driven by the rush of seasonal gift purchases.
Industry analysts pointed to strong employment figures and heightened consumer confidence as key factors supporting sustained spending. As consumers head into the holiday season with a positive outlook on their financial situation, they have shown a clear preference for purchasing fashion, electronics, and specialty goods. These sectors have seen particularly high sales, with shoppers eager to take advantage of both in-store promotions and online deals.
Retail property owners and managers also reported high occupancy rates, with leasing activity remaining strong as we approach 2026. This has fueled optimism about the continued demand for both traditional brick-and-mortar stores and mixed-use commercial real estate, highlighting the resilience of physical retail spaces despite the continued growth of e-commerce. The balance between online and in-store shopping has helped sustain this demand, with many consumers opting to experience the holiday shopping season in person while also taking advantage of the convenience of digital retail platforms.
As the holiday shopping season progresses, the momentum observed in mid-December indicates that U.S. retailers are on track for a strong finish to 2025. The sustained spending patterns reflect a resilient economy, with the retail sector playing a crucial role in driving consumer confidence and contributing to broader economic growth. With continued interest in both in-person and online shopping, the U.S. retail market is poised to remain a vital component of the economy as it heads into the new year.
