New data on Australian shoppers reveals exactly how they plan, compare and decide in 2026 — and what it takes to win them.
Australian shoppers aren’t just being careful with money. They’ve become systematically better at spending it.
They know the prices before they walk in. They’ve checked the catalogue, compared the retailers and judged your promotion before the trip. They’ll share their data, but only for a clear saving. And they’re curious about AI — as long as it helps them spend smarter.
The State of Shopping 2026 (Australia) maps the new rules of retail down under, combining our shopper survey with NielsenIQ pre-shop research and the leading market sources. One clear message: the empowered shopper has raised the bar.
What’s inside
🔍 The pre-shop decides the sale
93% of Australians research online before buying — and deal and flyer platforms are the #2 source, ahead of search.
Discover where the decision really happens, and how to be there.
❤️ Loyalty, earned each trip
64% of shoppers stick to the same stores. But nearly half will switch for the right promotion.
Understand what keeps Australians coming back — and what sends them elsewhere.
🤖 AI, data & personalisation
Only 13% have used AI for a shopping decision — but 71% want AI that compares prices for them.
Learn which features Australians actually want, and why usefulness beats novelty every time.