Global Refund Volumes Surge 18% as Retailers Tighten Returns

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A new report from ACI Worldwide, a global leader in digital payments and banking solutions, has found that global refund volumes surged 18% in 2025 as retailers tightened their returns policies amid economic pressures. The report analyzed data from thousands of merchants across multiple industries and regions, revealing a significant increase in refund activity as consumers sought to return more purchases.

Why it matters

The rise in refund volumes reflects the challenging economic climate, with consumers potentially making more impulse purchases and then seeking to return them. Retailers are responding by implementing stricter returns policies in an effort to reduce costs and protect profit margins. This trend has implications for consumer behavior, retail operations, and the overall health of the global economy.

The details

According to the ACI Worldwide report, global refund volumes increased by 18% in 2025 compared to the previous year. The report found that retailers across multiple industries, including apparel, electronics, and home goods, have been tightening their returns policies in response to the surge in refund activity. This includes shortening return windows, implementing restocking fees, and requiring more documentation from consumers.

• The ACI Worldwide report analyzed data from 2025.

What’s next

The report's findings suggest that retailers will likely continue to scrutinize their returns policies in the coming years as they navigate an uncertain economic landscape.