SMEs Optimistic for 2023 Holiday Season Despite Supply Chain Challenges
A new DHL survey shows SMEs are optimistic about their 2023 holiday season prospects.
With Black Friday upon us, it’s time to get serious about the 2023 holiday season.
For small and mid-sized businesses, proactive holiday planning is a priority—and retailers and other shippers as well as carriers and last-mile delivery partners have been busy prepping for some time now. Indeed, 37% began holiday supply chain preparations in Q2 2023 or earlier, according to a recent DHL survey.
Despite persistent inflation and ongoing geopolitical turmoil around the globe, the survey shows SMEs are surprisingly optimistic about their prospects this season. To gain insight into what’s driving their business expectations for the 2023 holiday season, DHL compiled responses from more than 800 U.S. businesses.
Here are some key takeaways:
- Supply chain is still their top challenge, but inflation is a close second.
33% of respondents say supply chain delays are their biggest concern followed closely by inflation (24%).
- Online sales are expected to surpass 2022 levels.
About 70% of respondents believe their business’ online holiday sales will increase (38%) or match last year’s sales (31%).
- The 2023 holiday outlook is global.
25% say they will prioritize expanding globally with both international customers and business partners during the holiday season.
Greg Hewitt, CEO of DHL Express US, recently joined us on the Inbound Logistics podcast to share more findings from the survey. Listen now to see if your peak season is likely to be merry and bright.