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Deloitte: Back-to-School Spending Holds Steady During Economic Uncertainty

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Surveyed parents approach the season with both intent and restraint, as more than half of respondents expect the economy to worsen this year

NEW YORK, July 9, 2026 /PRNewswire/ —

Key takeaways

Back-to-school spending for K-12 students will likely remain steady, estimated to reach a collective $30.4 billion, or approximately $557 per student, based on those surveyed. Adjusted for inflation, families plan to spend 6% less year-over-year.Economic uncertainty is high, as 57% of those surveyed expect the economy to worsen in the next six months — the highest level reported in the survey since 2020.Value makes the grade: 31% of K-12 parents qualify as hyper value-seekers, adopting four or more cost-saving behaviors. These consumers plan to spend 14% more than other shoppers, suggesting that shopping is less about buying the cheapest item and more about buying intentionally.Back-to-school shoppers plan to shift their spending from technology (-16%) to clothing and accessories (+22%).Families are pushing back-to-school purchases closer to the start of school, with planned spending expected to peak in late July and early August, a return to pre-pandemic trends.Half of parents surveyed worry that their child relies on AI too much in and outside the classroom, while only 33% say their school has AI guidelines. Signaling a potential opportunity for ed-tech and retailers, 13% of parents plan to pay for AI tutoring or camps.

Why this matters 
Back-to-school shoppers remain strategic about spending as economic uncertainty remains top of mind. According to the “2026 Deloitte Back-to-School Survey,” K-12 parents plan to engage in value-seeking behaviors and push their spending closer to the start of school. Meanwhile, inflation appears to be impacting spending power, and parents are finding ways to navigate it.

Smart spending shapes back-to-school shopping 
Consumers continue to approach back-to-school spending with caution. Based on survey respondents’ intentions, back-to-school spending is expected to remain flat at $30.4 billion this year. Parents plan to spend $557 per student in grades K-12, down just $13 year over year. However, when adjusted for inflation families plan to spend 6% less year-over-year.

More than half of surveyed consumers are concerned about the economy: 57% of respondents expect the economy to worsen in the next six months, the highest level reported in the survey since 2020, and 24% of respondents are concerned about making upcoming payments.While lower-income (+10% YoY) and middle-income (+12% YoY) parents expect to spend more due to higher prices, upper-middle-income parents (-9% YoY) and higher-income parents (-20% YoY) say they’ll reduce their spending given financial concerns. Reasons vary:Eighty percent of lower-income families (those making $50K per year or less) and 71% of middle-income families (those making $50K to 99K annually) cited higher prices as the reason they’ll spend more. Sixty-seven percent of upper-middle-income families (those making $100-199K) plan to spend less because they are worried about the economy.Sixty-three percent of higher-income families (those making $200K or more) report having less money to spend.Spending intent shifts from tech to clothing: Those surveyed plan to spend 22% more on clothing and accessories, an average of $323 per child, but it is also the top category people would cut if budgets get too tight. Spending on technology is expected to decline 16% to an average of $417 per child as parents defer personal device upgrades for their children.To make room in their budgets for back-to-school items, half of those surveyed (50%) plan to cut back on other expenses, such as dining out and entertainment.Children’s preferences shape spending decisions, although slightly less often than last year: 59% of parents surveyed say their children often entice them to spend more, compared to 62% who said the same in 2025. In addition, 45% say their child has a specific must-have item for back-to-school, and 57% say their child influences them to splurge on that item.

Key quote            
“While many parents are willing to do all they can to help set their children up for success, financial concerns are leading them to sharpen their budgets. Cautious spending behavior exists across income groups, but value-seekers demonstrate that it’s not always about the cost — some consumers are willing to spend if they find value in the purchase. At the same time, there’s often a sense of nostalgia about back-to-school that can impact how and when parents spend. Retailers who lean into these dynamics may be more likely to see success throughout the season.”

Natalie Martini, vice chair and U.S. Retail and Consumer Products sector leader, Deloitte

Value-seekers go to the front of the class
As consumers aim to get more out of every dollar, they look to be employing several strategies to help get their children ready for the school year. This includes delaying purchases to later in the season and engaging in value-seeking behaviors. In addition, 68% of those surveyed said they plan to shop for back-to-school items during summer promotional events.

Families are pushing back-to-school purchases closer to the start of school: 48% of planned spending is expected to occur by the end of July, down from 61% in 2025. An additional 31% of planned back-to-school spending is expected to take place in early August, with average spend that month rising to $173 per child, up from $137 in 2025.About one-third (31%) of K-12 parents qualify as hyper value-seekers, meaning they adopt four or more cost-saving behaviors. However, despite their deal-seeking mindset, these consumers are expected to spend 14% more than other shoppers, underscoring that value-seeking can be more about being selective than cutting back.K-12 parents surveyed showcase value-seeking behavior in a variety of ways:Seventy-one percent say they will switch brands if the preferred brand is too expensiveSixty percent plan to shop at more affordable retailersFifty-one percent expect to shop for private labels instead of name brandsOne-quarter (25%) plan to use cashback websitesPlanned spending is consistently higher among parents across all income groups who use a broader set of digital tools in their shopping journey. While non-tech users (20%) plan to spend $381 on average, those planning to use search (30%) plan to spend $494 on average.Respondents who use additional tech tools plan to spend more: Search and social media users (21%) plan to spend an average of $531; those who use search, social media, and GenAI (29%) are expected to have the highest spend at $737.Most back-to-school purchases are expected to take place in-store rather than online, but online shoppers plan to spend more — an average of $614 compared to $521 for mostly in-store shoppers.Mass merchant retailers continue to be the top destination for back-to-school purchases, with 80% of parents planning to shop there. Online retailers, warehouse membership clubs, and department stores are other top destinations.Parents plan to shop at four retail formats on average, one less than last year. According to survey respondents, the main reason for spending the most at a retailer remains value for the money.

Key quote
“We see parents approach back-to-school shopping with intent. They tend to be more thoughtful about their spending and value-seeking strategies to help maximize their wallets. Additionally, those who actively use multiple digital tools to research products tend to be more engaged shoppers overall. GenAI users, for example, may spend more time comparing products and filling their carts with more purchases, which can create a further benefit for retailers to lean into the technology.”

Brian McCarthy, principal, Retail Strategy leader, Deloitte Consulting LLP

AI use raises questions about learning and preparedness
Parental concerns are emerging around their children’s use of AI, particularly regarding reliance and readiness. Many survey respondents also express uncertainty about school guidance.

Half (49%) of parents surveyed worry that their child relies on AI too much in and out of the classroom, while only 33% say their school has AI guidelines.Signaling gaps in both communication and policy, 38% of those surveyed do not know if their child’s school has AI guidelines.Signaling a potential opportunity for ed-tech and retailers, 13% of parents plan to pay for AI tutoring or camps.

Deloitte’s “Back-to-School” survey was conducted online using an independent research panel between May 22 and May 29, 2026, and surveyed 1,207 parents with at least one child attending school in grades K-12 this fall.

Connect with us on LinkedIn @NatalieMartini and @BrianCMcCarthy.

About Deloitte
Deloitte provides industry-leading audit, consulting, tax, and advisory services to many of the world’s most admired brands, including nearly 90% of the Fortune 500® and more than 9,000 U.S.-based private companies. At Deloitte, we strive to live our purpose of making an impact that matters for our people, clients, and communities. We bring together distinct talents, technologies, disciplines, and an ecosystem of alliances to help tackle today’s most complex business challenges and drive long-term progress. Deloitte is proud to be part of the largest global professional services network serving our clients in the markets that are most important to them. Bringing more than 180 years of service, our network of member firms spans more than 150 countries and territories. Learn how Deloitte’s approximately 470,000 people worldwide connect for impact at www.deloitte.com.

Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee (“DTTL”), its network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) does not provide services to clients. In the United States, Deloitte refers to one or more of the US member firms of DTTL, their related entities that operate using the “Deloitte” name in the United States, and their respective affiliates. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more about our global network of member firms.

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SOURCE Deloitte

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Joyson Electronics Unveils Embodied AI Core Component Portfolio, Including Dexterous Robotic Hand and Solid-Liquid Hybrid Battery, at WAIC 2026

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July 17, 2026

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SHANGHAI, July 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Joyson Electronics (600699.SH/0699.HK) announced at the 2026 World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) a suite of robotic component solutions, including a dexterous robotic hand, solid-liquid hybrid battery, third-generation AI head assembly, electronic skin, and an embodied AI brain – alongside its latest achievements in industrial settings training and application. In addition, the company’s robot controller products are already in volume production and being delivered to leading robotics firms.

Dexterous Robotic Hand Integrates Multiple Industry-Exclusive Technologies; AI Head Assembly Ready for Rapid Mass Production

The dexterous robotic hand is often regarded as the “crown jewel” of robotics – owing to its high level of integration across a broad range of frontier disciplines, among them bionics, flexible sensing, MEMS, and advanced materials – and its significant commercial value.

At WAIC, Joyson Electronics introduced its first fully in-house developed “TeleHand” series of dexterous hand solutions. The TeleHand Professional Edition features an industry-exclusive “in-palm integration + hybrid actuation” architecture, directly addressing key challenges such as standalone integrity, tactile sensing, compliant manipulation, and fine motion control.

With 20 degrees of freedom, the TeleHand integrates three actuation modes – direct drive, tendon-driven, and linkage – within the palm. This design not only combines the precision of direct drive with the compliance of tendon-driven mechanisms, but also delivers higher transmission efficiency and lighter weight, enabling easy adaptation to various robotic platforms.

The TeleHand is equipped with Joyson Electronics’ in-house developed actuators and force-tactile sensing technologies, including:

Ultra-compact, high-torque-density miniature frameless actuators, which reduce volume by nearly 50% and weight by approximately 30% compared to conventional models, while delivering 2–3 times higher torque density than industry-standard hollow-cup motors of the same diameter.In-house developed force and tactile sensing technology (electronic skin), featuring industry-exclusive natively decoupled three-dimensional force sensing, achieving resolution beyond human tactile limits, with high sensitivity, proximity detection, ultra-thin form factor, and flexibility – suitable for diverse dexterous hand and embodied intelligence applications.

The TeleHand PHINO platform’s native unified multimodal fusion architecture minimizes information loss and offers strong generalization capabilities, enabling the TeleHand to perform precision industrial operations while seamlessly supporting service-oriented interactive scenarios. In addition to the Professional Edition, Joyson Electronics also launched a cost-effective Basic Edition, which offers industrial-grade reliability and real-world deployment advantages through in-house factory batch deployment.

Meanwhile, Joyson Electronics unveiled its third-generation AI head assembly, which integrates perception, motion, and system-level capabilities to deliver more natural head movements and emotional expression. Designed with a production-ready mechatronic architecture, it enables rapid support from concept design and prototype validation to mass production. Its modular and platform-based design further allows for agile product customization and iteration to meet diverse customer requirements.

Joyson Electronics Debuts Embodied AI Brain; Controllers Already Shipping to Leading Customers

In the robotics “brain” domain (cerebrum and cerebellum), Joyson Electronics’ automotive-grade edge-side physical AI platform – its robot controller products – has already achieved commercial deployment and is now in volume production for leading robotics customers.

Furthermore, Joyson Electronics unveiled its embodied AI brain solution (EAOS + EAPC) – a unified, software-hardware-integrated platform designed for cross-form-factor and cross-scenario adaptability. The solution aims to make robots “easier to use, truly productive, and capable of autonomous evolution.”

The Embodied AI PC (EAPC) adopts an external form-factor design, built on a fused cerebrum-cerebellum controller architecture, with computing power ranging from 40 TOPS to 2070 TFLOPS, meeting diverse requirements from entry-level to flagship embodied AI systems. The product features a modular, integrated design with a compact footprint and superior thermal efficiency, enabling cross-platform and cross-environment adaptability. Leveraging Joyson Electronics’ automotive supply chain and manufacturing capabilities, the solution also offers significant cost competitiveness.

On the software side, the Embodied AI Operating System (EAOS) comprises three core subsystems:

World Model – responsible for “understanding”, encoding multimodal signals into unified state representations and using dynamic predictors to simulate and preview scenarios within the system.Agentic OS – responsible for “action”, formulating high-level strategies, decomposing complex tasks, dynamically orchestrating sub-agents, invoking skill libraries and tools, and translating decisions into precise motions across dexterous hands, robotic arms, and mobile chassis.Memory System – responsible for “evolution,” managing working memory for real-time context, episodic memory for past experiences, and skill memory for accumulated learned capabilities.

The EAOS enables robots to execute long-horizon, complex tasks and achieve autonomous evolution – translating into tangible productivity gains. To date, Joyson Electronics’ embodied AI brain has been deployed in real-world settings, including select industrial scenarios and automated charging.

Solid-Liquid Hybrid Battery: The Optimal Power Solution for Embodied Intelligence

Conventional energy solutions for embodied intelligence face multiple challenges – limited endurance, large footprint, long recharging times, and insufficient power capacity to support instantaneous high-current discharge. Battery safety also remains a critical factor for widespread adoption. The industry requires a fundamental breakthrough that simultaneously balances energy density, power density, and safety.

Solid-liquid hybrid batteries (semi-solid-state batteries) offer the optimal power solution for embodied intelligence and represent the only technological pathway capable of addressing all the above energy challenges at the current stage. At WAIC, Joyson Electronics introduced its “Crystal Energy” multi-form solid-liquid hybrid battery solution, delivering high performance and reliability:

Energy density significantly increased to 380 Wh/kgOverall endurance improved by approximately 60%Cycle life exceeding 2,000 cyclesWide operating temperature range from -20°C to 60°CSupports both wired and wireless charging, reaching 80% capacity in just 30 minutes

Complementing this is the Crystal Energy Ultra-Control BMS, which operates across a wide temperature range of -40°C to 105°C, featuring real-time cell monitoring, automotive-grade safety protection, and full-lifecycle health management – comprehensively enhancing the safety, durability, and energy efficiency of robotic power systems. Additionally, Joyson Electronics unveiled its first gallium nitride (GaN) motor driver, achieving conversion efficiency exceeding 95% while reducing size by 40% – positioning it at the forefront of the industry.

With robotics standing on the cusp of large-scale commercialization, Joyson Electronics is advancing its “self-development + investment” dual-drive strategy, expanding its presence in embodied intelligence, and accelerating breakthroughs in key technologies. Looking ahead, Joyson Electronics will leverage its global R&D, manufacturing capabilities, and industrial settings to drive the reliable, scalable, and cost-effective commercialization of robotic core components, helping accelerate the industry’s transition to mass adoption.

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SOURCE Joyson Electronics

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With the Launch of Next-Gen Vehicle Reports, Zoooom Breaks the Car History Monopoly and Stops the $40+ Consumer ‘Rip-Off’

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July 17, 2026

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The first platform to pair deep vehicle history with real-time visual AI diagnostics for private-party sales—at a market-disrupting price.

CYPRESS, Calif., July 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Zoooom, the pioneering peer-to-peer automotive technology platform, today announced the launch of Zoooom Car Reports, a direct, unprecedented reckoning for the legacy vehicle history monopoly. By offering the exact same volume of core historical and technical data as major traditional players — but adding real-time AI assessments and localized transactional intelligence — Zoooom is completely transforming the impact of car reports and dismantling its bloated pricing structure.

Zoooom Car Reports breaks the vehicle-history monopoly: same data, AI diagnostics, and a market-disrupting price.

For decades, a single vehicle history report could cost $40+. Because all major players rely on the exact same underlying datasets, Zoooom views this legacy pricing model as an outright consumer rip-off. Zoooom’s new initiative is rooted in its vision of democratizing automotive data and unlocking total transparency for everyday consumers.

Dismantling the Paywall: The Most Aggressive Pricing in Automotive Tech

To accelerate market adoption and empower consumers to gain confidence when transacting in the peer-to-peer marketplace, Zoooom is introducing a highly disruptive pricing structure:

Always Free for Your Own Vehicle: Any car registered in a user’s Zoooom Digital Garage receives full history reports completely free, without conditions. Zoooom is built on the core promise that no one should ever have to pay to access the data they already rightfully own.

The Summer Launch Offer: From now until August 31, 2026, users can run up to three comprehensive vehicle reports completely free of charge (see website for full conditions).

Zoooom Price Advantage: Starting September 1st, Zoooom will transition to a permanent, highly aggressive price positioning. While specific commercial tiers remain under wraps to protect Zoooom’s market edge, the post-summer pricing will permanently slash traditional industry rates, undercutting even basic budget data aggregators while delivering significantly higher technical value.

Zoooom Marketplace Plus Benefit: In a continuous commitment for service excellence, any buyer who runs a paid Zoooom report on a vehicle not saved in a Zoooom Digital Garage will receive a 100% refund on that report if they complete their transaction on the Zoooom marketplace using Stripe.

Zoooom Car Reports Goes Beyond with Advanced Features and a Unique Set of Data

While legacy reports rely entirely on lagging administrative logs, police reports, or DMV registrations, the Zoooom Car Report introduces a suite of modern, highly actionable features guiding potential buyers to make the right decision:

The “AI Walkaround” Integration: Users conduct a 60-second guided visual video scan of the car. Zoooom’s proprietary AI immediately analyzes the footage to capture real-time cosmetic wear (such as body scratches or interior cabin condition) and actively verifies instrument clusters to ensure no warning lights are illuminated, significantly enriching the depth of the historical report.

Actionable “What to Do Next” Framework: Instead of burying critical information in dense walls of text, Zoooom filters vehicle data into an immediate, prioritized checklist, explicitly flagging overdue services or open safety recalls.

NHTSA Owner Complaints Context: Zoooom cross-references the specific vehicle make and model year with broader consumer databases. By flagging recurring, owner-reported mechanical and electrical vulnerabilities, Zoooom arms buyers with critical preventative knowledge before they buy that is simply not mentioned in any other reports.

Localized Transaction & Tax Guidance: Unlike standard reports, Zoooom customizes the output based on the vehicle’s exact jurisdictional location, explicitly calculating estimated state sales taxes and outlining regional title notarization or transfer laws.

Integrated Pricing Guide: Estimated Private Party, Trade-in, and Dealer values are embedded directly into the history timeline, eliminating the need to cross-reference third-party valuation sites.

A Message from Leadership

“Zoooom continues to build unique capabilities that are fundamentally transforming the peer-to-peer car marketplace,” said Sheng Wang, CEO and Co-Founder of Zoooom. “With the launch of Zoooom Car Reports, Zoooom once again establishes itself as an indispensable player in the industry, leveraging data to create advanced, customer-centric AI features. By removing the friction of legacy systems and connecting buyers and sellers the way consumers expect, we are eliminating both the ‘trust deficit’ and the unnecessary middleman markups that have plagued this industry for too many years.”

“Charging consumers exorbitant prices for simple database queries is an outdated practice,” added Christophe G., Co-Founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Zoooom. “With Zoooom Car Reports, we are delivering a superior level of value for our customers and an unmatched product for a fraction of the cost. The Summer Launch Offer provides a unique opportunity for car sellers and buyers to engage with our brand and discover the most advanced peer-to-peer car marketplace in America. There has never been a better time to join the Zoooom community and benefit from our exclusive ecosystem.”

About Zoooom

Zoooom is an innovative automotive technology platform dedicated to bringing transparency, simplicity, and intelligence to the entire car ownership lifecycle. Leveraging proprietary technology, Zoooom develops user-centric solutions that break down traditional industry friction, creating a streamlined, cost-effective, and enjoyable experience for car owners, buyers, and sellers. Learn more at zoooom.me.

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SOURCE Zoooom, Inc.

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Community Healthcare Trust Announces Second Quarter Earnings Release Date And Conference Call

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July 17, 2026

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FRANKLIN, Tenn., July 17, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Community Healthcare Trust Incorporated (NYSE: CHCT) today announced that on Tuesday evening, August 4, 2026, after the market closes, it will report results for the second quarter of 2026. 

On August 5, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. Central Time, Community Healthcare Trust will hold a conference call to discuss earnings results, quarterly activities, general operations of the Company and industry trends. Simultaneously, a webcast of the conference call will be available to interested parties via an Internet link at www.chct.reit under the Investor Relations section. A webcast replay will be available following the call at the same Internet site address.

Conference Call Details

Domestic Dial-In Number: 1-888-347-1332

International Dial-In Number: 1-412-902-4278

Canada Toll Free: 1-855-669-9657

Replay Conference Call Details

Domestic & Canada Replay Number: 1-855-669-9658

International Replay Number: 1-412-317-0088

Conference ID: 9422138

About Community Healthcare Trust Incorporated

Community Healthcare Trust Incorporated (the “Company”) is a real estate investment trust that focuses on owning income-producing real estate properties associated primarily with the delivery of outpatient healthcare services in our target sub-markets throughout the United States. As of March 31, 2026, the Company had investments of approximately $1.2 billion in 198 real estate properties (including one property with sales-type leases). The properties are located in 36 states, totaling approximately 4.5 million square feet in the aggregate.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

In addition to the historical information contained within, the matters discussed in this press release may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are generally identifiable by use of forward-looking terminology such as “believes”, “expects”, “may”, “will,” “should”, “seeks”, “approximately”, “intends”, “plans”, “estimates”, “anticipates” or other similar words or expressions, including the negative thereof. Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and can include future expectations, future plans and strategies, financial and operating projections or other forward-looking information. Such forward-looking statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management. Because forward-looking statements relate to future events, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of the control of Community Healthcare Trust Incorporated (the “Company”). Thus, the Company’s actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in such forward-looking statements. Some factors that might cause such a difference include the following: general volatility of the capital markets and the market price of the Company’s common stock, changes in the Company’s business strategy, availability, terms and deployment of capital, changes in the real estate industry in general, interest rates or the general economy, adverse developments related to the healthcare industry, changes in governmental regulations, the degree and nature of the Company’s competition, the ability to consummate acquisitions under contract, catastrophic or extreme weather and other natural events and the physical effects of climate change, the occurrence of cyber incidents, effects on global and national markets as well as businesses resulting from increased inflation, changes in interest rates, supply chain disruptions, labor conditions, prolonged government shutdown or budgetary reductions or impasses, tariffs and global trade tensions, and/or international conflicts, and the other factors described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025, and the Company’s other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. Readers are therefore cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained herein which speak only as of the date hereof. The Company intends these forward-looking statements to speak only as of the time of this press release and undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments, or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

CONTACT: Bill Monroe, 615-771-3052

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SOURCE Community Healthcare Trust Incorporated

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