With the backdrop of significant economic and political uncertainties, goTRG’s survey of over 450 U.S. retailers reveals key insights about returns management during the holiday season. The study shows that 56% of retailers have higher inventory levels than last year, with 19% reporting significantly higher levels.
Key takeaways:
- Nearly two-thirds (63%) of retailers categorize returns as a severe or significant problem — an improvement from last year’s 73%
- Over half of retailers report that returns fraud has become a bigger problem in the past 12 months, with 52% expecting it to worsen during the holiday period
- Despite the challenges, only 52.6% of retailers are utilizing AI or machine learning to reduce return rates and improve returns experiences
- Eight of the 11 largest retailers reported higher inventory levels on their earnings calls last quarter
Retailers Recognize the Struggle of Returns This Holiday Season: Report
