Christmas Shopping Spontaneous or Planned: Which Type Are You?

A new survey reveals how differently Austrians approach their Christmas shopping. From planners to spontaneous buyers, from AI assistance to gift refusal: shopping behavior is diverse – but clearly influenced by inflation, generations, and gender.

The Spontaneous Buyer Leads

According to the current, representative survey by Shopfully and marketagent, 36 percent of respondents consider themselves to be the type "spontaneous buyer". This group usually makes decisions at the last minute – online or in-store – and gets inspired while browsing.

Women More Likely to be Planners, Men More Often Grouches

Close behind, with 32 percent, is the "planner" – well-organized, starting as early as October or November. The gender difference is striking: 40 percent of women describe themselves as planners, but only 25 percent of men. More men are found among the "Christmas grouches": 19 percent (women: 11 percent) avoid Christmas shopping if possible. This proportion increases with age.

Last-Minute Shopping Popular with Gen Z

The "last-minute shopper" ranks fourth with 11 percent. This type is more common among younger people – especially in Gen Z – with 18 percent. Purchases are usually made just a few days before Christmas. Five percent do not celebrate Christmas at all – especially people from Generation X are among the "total Christmas refusers".

Inflation Influences Gift-Giving Behavior

Almost one in three people are more conscious of their gift budget this year. While 22 percent maintain their purchasing behavior, others opt for cheaper alternatives (19 percent), give gifts to fewer people (14 percent), or choose homemade gifts (12 percent). Only six percent are completely foregoing gifts.

AI as a Helper in Christmas Preparations

Nearly 29 percent use artificial intelligence in preparation for Christmas – for example, for price comparisons, gift ideas, or budget planning. Particularly active: Generation Z with 58 percent. Among baby boomers, however, the proportion is only 10 percent.

Despite AI, many continue to rely on classic inspiration: 34 percent get ideas while browsing in stores, 29 percent through targeted experimentation. Also popular: websites, apps, and digital catalogs.

For the study, 1,060 people aged 14 and over in Austria were surveyed in a representative online survey by marketagent on behalf of Shopfully from October 29 to November 5, 2025.

(Red)

This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.