Dec. 7, 2025
By Hala Kenawy
Staff Writer
This piece is part of a six-part in-depth reporting project about the holiday season.
Nothing compares to the joy and authenticity of browsing the aisles in person during the holiday season. Therefore, when it comes to holiday shopping, in-store shopping is the way to go.
First, customers actually see what they’re buying when shopping in-store. They can check the sizing, feel the material of the clothes and see their true color. This means fewer returns and less disappointment.
Next, in-person shopping provides immediate gratification. There is no need to wait for packages to arrive or fear that they may get lost in the mail. Customers can walk out of the store with a gift in hand, which is especially important when shopping at the last minute. While online stores sometimes sell out or have limited stock, retail stores may still have those items and even offer exclusive deals.
Social interaction is another benefit of in-store shopping. A study conducted by the financial services company Klarna found that around 80% of customers look forward to the social interactions that come with shopping in person, which adds to the enjoyment of the experience. Friendly conversations with store employees or other shoppers can make the trip feel more personal and festive, which is further enhanced by Christmas songs playing in the background and colorful decorations.
Another advantage of shopping in-store is its positive impact on the environment. Online orders are often wrapped in multiple layers of packaging, creating a lot of waste.
Customers can walk out of the store with a gift in hand, which is especially important when shopping at the last minute.
According to the environmental news website Earth.org, in-store shopping usually results in less packaging and fewer shipments, thereby reducing pollution and carbon emissions. By choosing to shop in-store, customers can enjoy their gifts right away while also making a greener choice during the holiday season.
There are even more benefits that come with shopping at small, local businesses, which often carry handcrafted, locally made or one-of-a-kind products that cannot be found in large chain stores or online.
Rivers Edge Bank reports that shopping at these stores causes more money to stay within the local economy, supporting other small businesses, schools and public services, which helps the entire area thrive. Shopping locally also builds relationships between customers and business owners, strengthening the community as a whole.
So, sure, online shopping is convenient. It lets you skip the crowds, offers options at your fingertips and saves time. But for a better experience and more holiday cheer, in-store shopping can’t be beat.
