How Women Are Using Tech to Win Last-Minute Holiday Shopping 

Last-minute shopping is no longer a hassle thanks to technology. Working women that have to balance work, family, and inevitable end-of-year demands can confidently rest easy thanks to modern day assistance.

If you still have some Christmas gifts to check off of your list, Her Agenda has some helpful tools to free you of stress, and purchase everything you need, and possibly pick it up the same day.

Thanks to buy-online-pick-up-in-store, curbside pickup, and same-day delivery, and gift guides apps you can conveniently order your last minute Christmas gifts from the comfort of your bed or your desk at work. Many women professionals can work without worrying about getting off to shop in crowded stores with barely anything left, and the dreadful long lines.

Stores like Walmart, Target, Macy’s, Kohl’s and a host of grocery stores offer curbside services for your convenience. And FiveBelow and Old Navy offer buy-online-pick-up-in-store.

Most retail websites offer AI assistance and can be of help if you’re unsure of what you’re looking for. AI can offer recommendations, and substitutes if what you’re looking for isn’t available. 

Amazon led the way by rolling out its Rufus chatbot in 2024. Walmart’s Sparky chatbot is available on app and can synthesize reviews or offer product recommendations based on occasions, such as Christmas. Target recently unveiled a gift finder chatbot on its app, but it’s only available for the holiday season. Ralph Lauren partnered with Microsoft on the “Ask Ralph” chatbot to provide style recommendations.

Chain Store Age reports that in-store shopping will remain key for last-minute shoppers, with 88% planning to spend in physical stores. Shopping centers will also be an important destination, with nearly eight-in-10 (79%) shoppers planning to visit a retail property, led by Gen Z (89%) and millennials (86%).

Some millennial women may have to trek through the aisles of stores last-minute, however going into the stores with a budget and an idea of what you’re looking for will save time and effort.

However, sometimes being last-minute has its perks. The closer it gets to Christmas, the cheaper items become, as retailers are preparing to transition to the next holiday. In these cases you could find markdowns, clearance items, and good sales. Amazon currently has an online sale with something for everyone in your family. Amazon works best if you have a subscription, as it allows for shorter delivery times.