Today’s difficulties present new opportunities for manufacturers and retailers that gain the best information.
Americans are struggling to make ends meet in the current economy. They will continue to do so throughout 2009. We are in—and will continue to be in—a very challenging economic period. Foreclosures, bailouts, and the skyrocketing costs for food and energy are leaving consumers with empty wallets and heavy hearts. Despite the fact that consumers are resolute to open up their wallets during the holidays (see IRI’s new report Rethinking Retailing: 2008 Holiday Season Insights and Recommendations, October 2008), once the holidays end, shoppers will face continued price pressures, credit instability, and job uncertainty that has the potential result of a weakened long-term CPG manufacturer and retail sector. Unlike some market challenges, today’s difficulties present new opportunities for manufacturers and retailers that gain the best information, develop new and innovative strategies and act quickly.
|