

Retail sales in December closed out the year on a high note, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse, which measures in-store and online retail sales across all forms of payment. This follows a robust holiday season, where retail sales grew 8.5% excluding auto. As we kick-off 2022, there are a number of trends to watch that build on December momentum—including new ways people are shopping and paying and innovative strategies for how retailers are reaching consumers and providing different experiences for them. As detailed in a new Mastercard report, these trends include: Buying with a Purpose: Consumers are looking for retailers that shareRetail sales in December closed out the year on a high note, according to Mastercard SpendingPulse, which measures in-store and online retail sales across all forms of payment. This follows a robust holiday season, where retail sales grew 8.5% excluding auto. As we kick-off 2022, there are a number of trends to watch that build on ► The FINANCIAL BANKS