GoDaddy Survey Reveals Gen Z and Millennials Transforming Shopping with Digital Preferences
- GoDaddy's survey shows Gen Z and Millennials prefer digital, contactless shopping methods over traditional retail experiences.
- 15% of Gen Z and 10% of Millennials favor chatbot interactions, highlighting their comfort with technology in shopping.
- 54% of Gen Z and 41% of Millennials abandon purchases without digital payment options, stressing the need for retailers to adapt.
Shifting Consumer Dynamics: How Gen Z and Millennials are Redefining Shopping Habits
A recent survey conducted by GoDaddy highlights a pronounced shift in shopping preferences among younger generations, specifically Gen Z and Millennials. The findings reveal that these cohorts prioritize digital and contactless transactions, fundamentally altering the retail landscape. With 54% of Gen Z and 50% of Millennials favoring shopping methods that reduce human interaction, such as Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store, and self-checkout, it is clear that traditional shopping experiences no longer meet the expectations of younger consumers. In stark contrast, only 29% of Gen X and Boomers express similar preferences, indicating a generational divide in shopping behaviors.
The survey, which gathered responses from 1,500 U.S. consumers in March 2025, further emphasizes the shift towards digital solutions. A notable 15% of Gen Z and 10% of Millennials prefer interacting with chatbots over human customer service representatives. This trend illustrates a growing comfort with technology among younger shoppers, who are increasingly accustomed to seamless, automated experiences. In comparison, merely 3% of older generations opt for chatbot assistance, highlighting a potential area of growth for businesses aiming to capture the attention of younger consumers.
Additionally, the survey sheds light on the financial habits of these younger demographics. A significant 39% of Gen Z and 43% of Millennials have utilized Buy Now, Pay Later services, showcasing their preference for flexible payment options. Furthermore, the data reveals that online shopping during work hours is common among these groups, with 54% of Gen Z and 50% of Millennials admitting to shopping while at work, compared to just 18% of older generations. This behavior underscores a cultural shift towards blending work and personal life, with technology enabling convenience in both spheres. The findings indicate that businesses must adapt to this evolving consumer landscape by embracing digital payment solutions and flexible shopping options to stay relevant.
The survey also highlights the importance of digital wallets, with 54% of Gen Z and 41% of Millennials abandoning purchases due to a lack of digital payment methods. As the demand for contactless transactions rises, retailers will need to prioritize integrating these options into their payment systems to avoid losing potential sales. Overall, the GoDaddy Consumer Pulse survey reveals that younger consumers are not just influencing shopping trends; they are reshaping the entire commercial landscape with their distinct preferences and behaviors, driven by technology and a desire for convenience.
In conclusion, as Gen Z and Millennials continue to dominate the consumer market, companies must innovate and adapt their strategies to meet the expectations of these tech-savvy shoppers. The emphasis on digital transactions, flexible payment options, and enhanced customer experiences will be crucial for businesses looking to thrive in this rapidly changing environment.