Schools' preparation for the new academic year is bolstered by local businesses in the United States
The back-to-school season of 2025 is here, and it's more than just a shopping spree. Companies across the nation are showing their commitment to students and families by supporting local schools, sports programs, and education initiatives.
Tractor Supply, for instance, is backing local National FFA Organization chapters and 4-H clubs during the school year. DICK's Sporting Goods, on the other hand, partners with public schools to help fund sports programs across the nation. Verizon's Innovative Learning schools program donates tablets and provides necessary training to educators.
The clothing sector is experiencing a robust growth during this season, providing a significant boost to fashion retailers, manufacturers, and the entire textile supply chain. This year, the back-to-school shopping trends show a shift from traditional supplies towards a broad mix of stylish accessories, electronics, sustainable clothing, and digital tools. Students are increasingly involved in selecting items that express personal style, such as customizable backpacks, trendy footwear, charm accessories, smartwatches, and digital planners. Sustainability is prominent, with thrifting and eco-friendly clothing gaining favor among younger shoppers.
Businesses are leveraging social media, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital innovation to align with these consumer demands. American Eagle, for example, has collaborated with Snapchat to promote in-store shopping by utilizing Snap Map and an augmented reality (AR) Jeans Try-on feature. The rise of generative AI has significantly impacted online shopping behavior, with a 3,300% surge in AI-generated traffic around major sales events like Amazon Prime Day. Retailers are increasingly adopting AI-powered assistants and combining influencer marketing with AI technologies to create dynamic, personalized, and efficient shopping environments.
The back-to-school season is expected to generate $30.9 billion in spending this year. Digitally engaged consumers spend more than traditional shoppers during this season, according to Deloitte. September is the top shopping month for back-to-school items, but consumers are starting their shopping as early as June.
The extended back-to-school shopping season allows businesses to capture early bird shoppers, maintain steady inventory turnover, maximize promotional effectiveness, and build stronger customer relationships. An estimated 90% of parents plan to enroll children in extracurricular activities during the back-to-school season, generating revenue for sports equipment manufacturers, arts suppliers, and local activity providers.
In conclusion, the 2025 back-to-school retail landscape is characterised by the convergence of stylish, personalized product demand with digital and AI-driven marketing innovation. Brands focusing on digital engagement through social media platforms and AI tools are best positioned to meet evolving consumer behavior, blending online convenience with tailored, interactive experiences. The back-to-school season underscores the importance of businesses in providing resources and support to students and families during the academic year, strengthening the relationship between businesses and American families, and driving economic growth.
- Corporate entities, such as Tractor Supply, DICK'S Sporting Goods, and Verizon, are actively contributing to the education and lifestyle of students by supporting school activities, sports programs, and educational initiatives.
- As the back-to-school season of 2025 progresses, businesses across the nation are witnessing substantial growth in the clothing sector, particularly in fashion retail, manufacturing, and the textile supply chain.
- The 2025 back-to-school shopping trends show a shift towards stylish accessories, electronics, sustainable clothing, and digital tools, with students favoring personalized items like customizable backpacks and smartwatches.
- Businesses are utilizing technology and innovation to align with these consumer trends, leveraging social media, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital innovation to create dynamic, personalized, and efficient shopping environments.
- The technology sector is also actively participating, with generative AI significantly impacting online shopping behavior and causing a surge in AI-generated traffic during major sales events like Amazon Prime Day.
- American Eagle, for instance, has collaborated with Snapchat to offer in-store shopping experiences using Snap Map and an augmented reality (AR) Jeans Try-on feature.
- The back-to-school season is expected to generate $30.9 billion in spending, with digitally engaged consumers spending more than traditional shoppers.
- The extended back-to-school shopping season not only allows businesses to capture early bird shoppers but also contributes to economic growth by generating revenue for sports equipment manufacturers, arts suppliers, and local activity providers, with an estimated 90% of parents planning to enroll children in extracurricular activities during this season.
