ICSC: Back-to-school shopping spend to rise; will extend into September

The average consumer expects to spend more on back-to-school items this year than in 2019, despite continued uncertainty over school openings amid COVID-19.

That’s according to a survey by the International Council of Shopping Centers, which found that back-to-school shoppers will spend an average of $1,053 on related items, up approximately $200 from last year, with increased spending on electronics and furniture.

The ICSC survey also provided some optimism for brick-and-mortar retailers. Ninety-six percent of respondents plan to make purchases from stores with a physical presence. Click-and-collect shopping has also become a popular option, with 56% expecting to use this method.

CSA