Downsized Groceries and Lifestyle Goods
Stefanie Hutson — November 13, 2008 — Lifestyle
References: consumerist
If it seems like your favorite home and grocery products are shrinking, you might be right. An increasing number of major companies have started to shrink their products rather than raise prices and (presumably) irk their customers. Staples like cereal, toilet paper, peanut butter, and baby formula are among the items reported to have decreased in size lately.
In tough economic times, it’s not uncommon for many of us to cut back. For some, that means flying first-class instead of taking a chartered jet, and for others, it means clipping coupons and planting a garden. Does that make it okay for major companies to reduce the size of their products, or should they simply raise prices?
Recipes that once called for 14.2 ounce cans may need to be altered to deal with new 12 ounce cans, and those who know that a single box of cereal will last their two children one week may suddenly find themselves running out on Friday.
In other cases, the actual makeup of the product is affected. Products that were once 100% juice are now 60% juice, or items that were once 100% fish are now just 40%.
Whether you appreciate the ability to hold purchase prices steady, or you find yourself irritated at the reduction in what your money can buy, it’s a trend worth noting.
In tough economic times, it’s not uncommon for many of us to cut back. For some, that means flying first-class instead of taking a chartered jet, and for others, it means clipping coupons and planting a garden. Does that make it okay for major companies to reduce the size of their products, or should they simply raise prices?
Recipes that once called for 14.2 ounce cans may need to be altered to deal with new 12 ounce cans, and those who know that a single box of cereal will last their two children one week may suddenly find themselves running out on Friday.
In other cases, the actual makeup of the product is affected. Products that were once 100% juice are now 60% juice, or items that were once 100% fish are now just 40%.
Whether you appreciate the ability to hold purchase prices steady, or you find yourself irritated at the reduction in what your money can buy, it’s a trend worth noting.
Trend Themes
1. Product Downsizing Trend - Major companies are shrinking their products instead of raising prices, creating opportunities for innovative product design and packaging.
2. Ingredient Reduction Trend - Some products are reducing the amount or quality of their ingredients, creating opportunities for more sustainable and healthy product alternatives.
3. Consumer Perception Shift Trend - Consumers may be becoming more accepting of downsized products, creating opportunities for companies to rebrand and market their smaller offerings.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Goods Industry - Downsizing trends are most evident in the consumer goods industry, particularly in staple products such as food, toiletries, and household items.
2. Packaging Industry - With downsizing becoming more common, the packaging industry has opportunities to develop new and innovative packaging solutions that still convey value to consumers.
3. Sustainability Industry - The ingredient reduction trend presents opportunities for companies to create more sustainable products by reducing waste and improving sourcing practices.
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