Australians are set to fork out an average of $686 each on Christmas spending this year, according to a new survey from Accenture.
The survey which consulted 1000 Aussies, found that 34% will complete their shopping online, with 66% researching on Amazon before anywhere else.
When purchasing from eTailers, 29% of respondents said they expect fast and free delivery but would be enticed to choose in-store pick up over delivery if they were rewarded with bonus loyalty points (61%), a discount voucher to be used in-store (51%) or a free gift with purchase (50%).
According to the survey, gift cards for stores or restaurants will be the present of choice for 56% of respondents, with clothing and footwear (48%) ranked as the next most popular.
For gift inspiration the survey says 55% of Aussie shoppers will browse in-store for ideas while 42% are relying on word of mouth recommendations.
The survey also found that 44% of shoppers are more likely to do their shopping with a more environmentally conscious retailer, while 43% of consumers plan to make an impact with their wallet, spending their money with retailers that reflect their values.
Accenture products lead Glenn Heppell said that bricks-and-mortar retailers play a key role in festive season shopping.
"Despite the growing trend toward online shopping, and the need to provide consumers with a strong online proposition, bricks-and-mortar retail remains a critical channel for shoppers in Australia, especially over the holiday season.
"With two thirds of consumers planning to spend-instore, retailers need to carefully plan their strategy for superior customer service as well as labour, assortment and allocation of inventory to ensure they are winning the attention of customers at this busy time of year.
"There is a growing trend toward consumers spending their money on brands that reflect their values and who demonstrate they are taking positive steps to improve sustainability through their business practices.
"As consumers become more environmentally and socially aware of the impact retailing has on the environment, retailers need to design their products and business around responsible initiatives," he said.