Are American Pockets & Stomachs getting healthier?

A recent National Shoppers report from Acosta Sales & Marketing called, “The Why? Behind The Buy, “ gives us a positive outlook on the state of American Wallets…and shopping baskets.

A recent National Shoppers report from Acosta Sales & Marketing called, “The Why? Behind The Buy, “ gives us a positive outlook on the state of American Wallets…and shopping baskets. According to this National Report, not only is the American economy turning the corner, but American shoppers are turning to healthier food options with more frequency and determination. The report showed for example; • Consumer spending is up 1.7% in the grocery channel for the first quarter of 2013. • 33% of shoppers ages 18-44 reported they are making more routine shopping trips Results also illustrated an emphasis on healthy choices; • 50% of shoppers indicated that they read nutrition labels “most of the time” or “always.” • 81% of shoppers report that they “usually” or “sometimes” select and consume healthier foods. • “Whole grain/wheat” was the most important food claim respondents considered when purchasing a product. And what about the digital influence? Well, more shoppers, especially Gen Y and U.S. Hispanics, are using technology before, during and after grocery shopping. • 7 in 10 shoppers use Facebook and 45% of them visit brand pages at least monthly, primarily for coupons and special offers. • 74% of shoppers polled believe that digital devices are important to log in and update loyalty points, while 71% use digital devices to post a product review. Taking this data into consideration, we see an opportunity for retailers to highlight their fresh produce and perhaps emphasize and display foods with notable health claims. This data also reinforces a message we have conveyed before, retailers must have visibility on digital platforms!