This week on the Syndic8 Series, Chris talks to returning guest Matt Priest, President and CEO of the FDRA, about whether the expected recession has happened, why customers are looking for value more than ever, America's tariff policies, what to expect for the upcoming holiday season, and more.
Here's one takeaway from our conversation:
Staying ahead of reduced consumer spending
Did we dodge the recession we all anticipated?
Matt Priest shared some great insights on this. Despite low unemployment and strong job reports, we're seeing some signs that people are not spending as much as they used to.
Here's what this means for retailers and how to navigate these uncertain waters:
Recognize softening markets
– Households with incomes under $100k are starting to pull back on spending. This doesn't mean a recession is coming, but it shows that people are being more conscious about spending.
Leverage recession-proof industries
– Footwear, for example, often remains strong even in economic downturns. They're not buying cars, but they're probably still buying shoes.
Stay competitive on pricing
– Be more promotional and adjust pricing strategies to attract budget-conscious consumers. Fast food chains like McDonald's and Starbucks have really leaned into value meals to help bring customers back.
Adapt to consumer behavior
– Engage with your customers where they are. Understand their needs and be flexible with your offerings.
Even though we're seeing historically strong economic trends, the consumer's shift toward value is undeniable.
Here's how you can stay ahead:
Promotional strategies: Increase promotions to attract cost-sensitive shoppers.
Engage your audience: Use targeted marketing to show consumers you're offering value.
Competitive pricing: Reevaluate your pricing strategies regularly to stay competitive.
The consumer landscape is changing, but with the right approach, you can thrive even in uncertain times.
-Chris