French holiday spending trends

French consumers are adapting their holiday spending habits due to inflation, with increased budgets for Christmas gifts and meals, despite economic pressures, according to a study by Havas Market released on October 27.

Survey details and findings

The survey, conducted with Cortex (Havas) and YouGov, included 1,004 French individuals celebrating Christmas. The average gift budget is rising by 3% to 252 euros, while the Christmas meal budget is increasing by 8% to 180 euros.

Inflation and historical context

This follows a 3% increase in inflation in September compared to the previous year, according to INSEE, with the government estimating an annual increase of 2.1%. However, the average gift basket in 2026 remains below 2023 and 2024 levels, having dropped by 8.3% in 2025 to 245 euros.

Spending plans and credit use

Forty-three percent of participants plan to spend less than 200 euros on gifts. Credit use for the holidays has doubled in a year, with 14% of those surveyed planning to borrow money, compared to 7% in 2025.

Budget management strategies

Nearly one in three French people plans to use deferred or installment payments, an increase of 7 points compared to previous years. Eight out of ten consumers plan to change their habits to preserve the holidays while managing budgets.

Promotion hunting and Black Friday

Many are anticipating purchases to "hunt for every promotion," with 27% of those surveyed declaring they want to buy gifts during Black Friday, an increase of 6 points compared to the previous year and more than double compared to 2021.

AI in holiday shopping

AI is becoming a tool for optimizing holiday spending, primarily among those under 35 years old: 61% of this group plans to use AI or has already done so for Christmas purchases or inspirations, a 13-point increase from 2025.

Consumer resistance to AI

However, for the population as a whole, 58% remain resistant to using AI for end-of-year celebrations. The main reason cited by 69% of those who do not want to use AI is "I don't see the interest."

Online shopping and social media

Online shopping is gaining importance, with 47% of online shoppers planning to shop on brands' websites, an increase of 12 points. Shopping options on social networks are also increasing, with 16% of respondents being inspired by them and 7% purchasing directly there, a 3-point increase compared to 2025.