A recent survey by fast fashion giant Shein, conducted by The Harris Poll, found that 67% of American shoppers view inflation as the most pressing issue in 2025.
The study also revealed that 43% of respondents were concerned about tax increases, while 35% worried about the potential impact of tariffs.
Concern was highest among respondents aged 55 and older, with 72% citing inflation, 47% expressing worry about tax hikes, and 45% highlighting tariffs as a key issue.
According to the report, the most important factor for shoppers was price, with 80% of respondents choosing it as the most important factor when choosing a retailer.
Additionally, 56% of shoppers cited a variety of styles offered by a brand as an essential factor.
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly common practice among shoppers, with 92% avoiding discarding apparel in the trash and 91% opting to repurpose or recycle their clothing.
The rise of eco-conscious shopping in the US is driven by economic uncertainty, affordability, and other factors, with the market expected to reach a value of $74 billion by 2029.
Financial constraints also play a key role in shoppers’ decisions, with 72% of Shein customers reporting that they have a tight budget for apparel shopping.
Low-cost online retailers like Shein and Temu have intensified competition for brick-and-mortar stores, leveraging a business model built on affordable, budget-friendly fashion.
The number of fashion retailers downsizing and filing for bankruptcy has also risen in 2025, due to a challenging market created by foreign fast fashion websites.
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