If you thought malls were a dying breed thanks to online shopping, think again. A new study says the majority of teens and young adults known as Generation Z prefer to shop in stores. Shannon Handy joins us live from Fashion Valley with more on the study and what Gen Z shoppers have to say.
Shannon. Well, Carla and Barbaralee, when I was growing up, we didn't really have online shopping, so going to the mall was one of my favorite things to do, not just for the shopping, but also, of course, hanging out with my friends, and it seems as though that trend is back. With smartphones making shopping as simple as a few taps, you'd think that's what most people would turn to. But a recent study released by Morning Consult found otherwise. Turns out the majority of Generation Z, defined as anyone born between 1997 and 2012, prefer going into stores.
55% of Generation Z females say they like shopping in person. That number is lower for Generation Z men at 40%. Meanwhile, for all other adults, it was 53%. They're researching online, but then they're getting in their cars and they're buying in the store.
San Diego State Business Lecturer Dr. Wendy Patrick says it's not just about making a purchase, but the socializing that comes with it. You know, we are not made to simply sit in front of our computer terminals and do everything online. We are meant to socialize. to engage, to get out there and talk to other people.
We spoke with a group of Gen Zers ages 17 to 19 who agree. I personally spend my Saturday going to the malls and I stay there like two or three hours with my friends or my family. And you know, you can just eat, go around some malls, have even pools. You can do things.
But they say the thing they like most about shopping in person is the ability to see products with their own eyes. You see if it fits or how it looks. And...
And there's maybe a difference if you see a model wearing it online. So, yeah, you can just see it yourself. The Stoney also found that two-thirds of the younger generation shop for fun once a month.
Still, they are turning to the Internet. 41% of Gen Z adults said consumer reviews and ratings are important when online shopping. That percentage is even higher for Gen Z women.
And if you're wondering how they're paying for things, 47% opt to use a debit card. compared to 30% who use cash. And this research is, of course, good news for malls like Fashion Valley.
3,000 people took part in the study. Back to you.