Podcast Summary
Welcome to the thirty-third episode of The Digital Shelf Insider Podcast hosted by Shreshta Joy. In this episode, we’re joined by Morgan McAlenney, VP of Commerce Growth & Business Development, and McCord Chapman, VP of Commerce & Omni Planning at Public Label, to explore what US brands can expect this holiday season.
Morgan and McCord explain how economic uncertainty, tariffs, and shifting consumer behavior will influence Q4 shopping. They share insights on why shoppers are planning earlier, how TikTok and social commerce are reshaping purchasing habits, and why value will outweigh price in 2025.
The conversation also dives into the role of AI in product discovery, the balance between functional and emotional brand connections, and why testing new approaches this season could give brands a first-mover advantage heading into 2026.
Key themes
In this episode, Morgan and McCord outline trends and strategies brands should consider to win US holiday shoppers in 2025.
Economic Uncertainty Shapes Behavior
Consumers are spreading budgets earlier, worried about tariffs and rising prices. Many will prioritize value over pure discounts, making timing and messaging critical.
TikTok & Social Commerce Influence Shopping
Younger shoppers blur the line between content and commerce. Purchases often spark from influencer content or impulse-driven social discovery.
AI and Product Discovery
AI is changing how shoppers search and evaluate products. Brands need to think beyond retail SEO and move toward digital relationship management across reviews, forums, and social channels.
Category Winners and Losers
Electronics, affordable luxury, and groceries are expected to hold demand. Generic categories like basic apparel and home goods may face headwinds unless they deliver unique value.
Testing & First-Mover Advantage
Holiday 2025 is the time to experiment. Brands that test conversational SEO, AI-driven discovery, and multi-channel strategies now will be better positioned for 2026.
Key Highlights
Here are key highlights from the conversation with Morgan and McCord:
- US shoppers are planning earlier due to price uncertainty and tariffs.
- TikTok and social platforms are driving impulse holiday purchases.
- AI is reshaping product discovery; brands must optimize beyond retail SEO.
- Categories like electronics, luxury treats, and grocery remain resilient.
- Testing new strategies in 2025 creates a competitive edge for 2026.
Takeaways
Actionable advice from Morgan and McCord’s US holiday season outlook:
- Adjust campaign timing; earlier promotions are essential in 2025.
- Focus on value-driven messaging, not just discounting.
- Expand SEO thinking into AI, reviews, and digital reputation management.
- Prioritize resilient categories while differentiating in weaker ones.
- Use Holiday 2025 to experiment with AI and conversational commerce.
Conclusion
This episode is essential for US e-commerce leaders preparing for the busiest shopping season of the year.
Whether you manage retail promotions, omnichannel campaigns, or digital shelf strategy, Morgan and McCord deliver actionable insights to navigate uncertainty, leverage social commerce and AI, and set your brand up for long-term success.
Watch now!
Disclaimer: The content shared in the Digital Shelf Insider Podcast by MetricsCart is for general informational and discussion purposes only. The insights, opinions, and perspectives expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not constitute professional advice, recommendations, or endorsements by MetricsCart or any affiliated entity.
