70% of SMEs expect year-on-year sales growth this festive season

The holiday shopping season is already in full swing and Federal Express Corporation (FedEx), shared insights from its latest survey on this year’s festive shopping season in the Asia Pacific region.

Conducted in October 2024, the survey gathered responses from 200 small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) and 300 consumers across 12 APAC markets, exploring their expectations, purchasing motivations, and concerns for the festive season, while identifying key trends shaping customer behavior during this time.

According to the findings, 70% of SMEs expect year-on-year sales growth this festive season, with nearly 80% forecasting this growth in sales from within Asia—especially from Southeast Asia. This optimism aligns with broader market trends, as Southeast Asia’s e-commerce market grew in double digits in 2024 .

The survey reveals key growth opportunities for SMEs:

Over half (57%) of consumers prefer shopping on e-commerce platforms, with 70% motivated by substantial festive discounts and promotions.

Free delivery continues to play a crucial role in shaping the shopping experience and driving purchases among consumers. Equally, consumers expect their orders to arrive within two to three business days, with convenient delivery options.

Consumers want to see businesses develop more sustainable online shopping practices and are willing to pay a premium for sustainable packaging when purchasing gifts, reinforcing the opportunity for businesses to differentiate themselves in the crowded e-commerce marketplaces by offering sustainable options.

"In the Asia Pacific region, the gifting season continues in the months leading up to Christmas through to Lunar New Year," said Kawal Preet, president, Asia Pacific, FedEx. "As cross-border e-commerce continues to surge, e-tailers—particularly small and medium-sized businesses— are gearing up to maximize sales this festive season. Through our extensive network and smart, intuitive digital solutions, we empower these businesses to deliver exceptional customer experiences, streamline holiday shipping, and thrive in this competitive landscape."