New research from digital and data experts TWC has revealed that 42% of consumers are buying fewer treats in a bid to reduce their spending. Two-thirds of consumers are using at least one tactic to cut back on grocery spending, with trading down on product choice the next most used strategy.
The TWC Trends research was conducted in June 2022 and showed that 53% of consumers agreed that they were having to reduce their spending to pay their bills; with younger consumers and those with children in the household most likely to be feeling the pinch. There continues to be a divided population, with 24% of consumers disagreeing with this statement, particularly consumers aged 55+.
Consumers reported that they are making cutbacks across both grocery and discretionary spending, with the reduction in treats coming out as the top tactic, with 42% agreeing that they are doing this. Trading down by buying cheaper groceries was next, with 40% agreement; followed by reducing other retail spending such as clothes and homewares (39%); and fewer days or evenings out (31%).
Just under a third of consumers (29%) said they were opting to shop for groceries in cheaper stores, which aligns to a similar proportion saying they are shopping in the discounters more than they were 6 months ago.
However, as we’ve seen in previous recessions, convenience stores are holding up well, with more than half of consumers saying their usage of the channel has stayed the same. Whilst 15% said they are using c-stores less than 6 months ago this was balanced out by a similar proportion who claim to be using them more.
Sarah Coleman, Communications Director at TWC comments:
“It is really reassuring to see that convenience stores are continuing to prosper despite the current pressure on prices and household budgets.
“Beneath the surface we are seeing an interesting trend with consumers in London more likely to be increasing their use of convenience stores– reinforcing the role smaller stores play in cities as well as rural communities.”
“We are also seeing younger consumers and those with children are more likely to be increasing their use of c-stores. Given that we know that these consumers are more likely to be under financial pressure, convenience stores need to ensure that they offer value to retain these customers. One potential route is through price marked packs – which are particularly liked by these consumer groups – but must deliver a fair return to all parties along the supply chain to be viable.”
The TWC Trends Summer Edition 2022 series is based on the views and sentiments of over 1,000 consumers across the UK. The research was conducted 14-18 June 2022.
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