Blue Yonder, the supply chain AI company, on Thursday announced the results of its survey of global consumer delivery expectations for the upcoming holiday season.
For the “Global Consumer Holiday Shipping Survey 2025”, 6,000 consumers in Germany and six other countries (France, Great Britain, Middle East, Australia, New Zealand, USA) were surveyed in October 2025 about their plans for Christmas shopping and sending gifts.
Changes in shopping behavior for the 2025 Christmas season
“Consumers across geographies and generations are entering the holiday season with higher expectations for speed, affordability and sustainability. These shifting priorities could have a significant impact on retailers and logistics service providers as the peak season begins – with the potential to significantly impact year-end sales performance,” said Ann Marie Jonkman, vice president of Global Industry Strategies at Blue Yonder, in a statement.
An important finding for brands and retailers: More than half (53 percent) of the consumers surveyed expect their online orders to arrive within two to four days with standard shipping – in Germany this is almost two thirds (64 percent).
Early purchasing and direct shipping are very popular
However, only a third (34 percent) are very confident about the delivery date (31 percent in Germany). That’s why more than three quarters (78 percent) of respondents plan to buy their gifts for people who are not part of their household at least three to four weeks in advance; half of baby boomers (49 percent) even more than a month in advance.
Direct shipping of gifts by retailers is a preferred method for the majority (86 percent) of those surveyed in Germany and the national average. Almost three quarters (72 percent) of German consumers are willing to pay for express shipping, but the percentage falls among baby boomers (51 percent national average).
Collection estimated as quicker and cheaper
The survey also found that many consumers are willing to consider alternative delivery methods such as in-store, post office or locker pickup to reduce costs, delivery times and environmental impact. Store pickup is particularly valued by more than half (53 percent) of those surveyed because it is faster or free of charge (49 percent).
More than half (56 percent) of respondents are also willing to bundle their purchases to minimize the environmental impact of shipping. A third (34 percent) are open to slower shipping options to reduce emissions. Almost a quarter (23 percent; 26 percent in Germany) are willing to pay a small fee for CO2 compensation.
“The results highlight a critical shift in consumer behavior and delivery expectations this holiday season. Retailers and logistics service providers must demonstrate their reliability and agility, not just promise it. AI-powered supply chain solutions offer a path forward, enabling companies to optimize their logistics operations to meet increasing demands and deliver a better customer experience,” concludes Jonkman.