CONSUMER OUTLOOK

Value moves back to the center

Households are trading down selectively while protecting spend on convenience, repair, and short local trips.

Analysis by Imani Cole · 7 minute read

Survey responses point to a practical reset rather than broad retrenchment. Grocery and household categories carry the sharpest scrutiny, while services that save time continue to hold.

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Signals for the next quarter

Retailers with clear unit pricing and dependable fulfillment are gaining consideration. Loyalty is increasingly earned at checkout through predictability rather than points.