Meet the expectations of more self-determined shoppers
Recent developments and the recurrence of regulations across Europe demonstrate, that the pandemic is by no means over and respective shocks in consumer behavior will last well into 2022.
With a new COVID-19 variant on the horizon, restrictions for many daily routines – from restaurants to retail –, and continued interruptions in supply chains, the economic outlook of consumers is becoming gloomier.
Market players in FMCG have to closely analyze the drivers of behavior change and adapt their strategic business decisions accordingly.
While a Europe-wide recession might be avoided, the short-term shocks in consumer behavior, such as speedy shopping or more meals at home, could last well into the first half of 2022, with the risk of shoppers cutting back on their consumption altogether.
But predictions are fairly unanimous, that economies in Europe will be catching up fast in the second half of 2022.
The prolongation of the pandemic is strenuous on shopper health. There is a huge need for easy solutions that promote balanced living. There is a huge opportunity for brands and retailers alike in the realm of preventative health and conscious choices
Food delivery has grown tremendously during COVID-19 and shoppers are getting in the habit of ordering online. Flash delivery is emerging as a fierce contender of out-of-home delivery. Availability and assortment optimization are fundamental in reaching instant everywhere customers
Decisions in category management must take a very differentiating approach to the vast differences in basket size and consumer expectations. A good mix of functional brands and value-added brands, and a permanent reassessment will be key to success. Amidst unprecedented inflation, setting the right price in the right place is more relevant than ever
