As consumer products companies look to a new Trump administration, higher tariffs are most likely on the way. Businesses that prepare now, even as they wait for the tariffs to take shape, will be better positioned to maximize their margins. … READ MORE >
Consumer products
Holiday season business insights: Shorter season, early shopping and fast shipping
Consumer products companies should encourage early shopping, plan for shipping constraints across the supply chain and engage post-holiday shoppers. … READ MORE >
Back-to-school recap: Buying trends set tone for retail holiday season
The back-to-school season provided key insights into what to expect for the holiday shopping period. … READ MORE >
Consumer sentiment rebounds in August
Consumer sentiment rose for the first time in five months, according to the University of Michigan’s survey in August. … READ MORE >
Robust July retail sales defy growth scare
While the robust July retail sales numbers might come as a surprise given the various pressures on American consumers, the data was very well in line with our forecasts. … READ MORE >
Consumer products M&A: Cautious buyers limit activity
The first half of 2024 continued the downward trajectory of consumer products deal volumes. Cautious buyers weighed economic and political uncertainty, a softening consumer, and the lack of clarity on the timing and extent of interest rates against continued high seller expectations and limited availability of assets. Additionally, concerns over … … READ MORE >
Back-to-school outlook: Price sensitivity creates consumer spending shifts
Back-to-school spending is expected to decrease this season after record highs last year. … READ MORE >
Back-to-school outlook: Blurring the lines of digital and physical store sales
In our three-part blog series, RSM’s senior industry analysts explore back-to-school shopping trends and the impact on consumer businesses. … READ MORE >
Strong employment enables consumers to maintain spending
Strong employment has sustained consumer spending levels, Commerce Department data for June released on Tuesday shows. Rdriven by robust employment despite consumers’ depleted savings and high interest rates. As retailers look ahead to the remainder of 2024, they should anticipate steady yet moderated spending. … READ MORE >
Retail demand shows weakness, leading to first inflation dip in 6 months
In a noteworthy turn, core goods prices have experienced a continued decline, contributing to the first dip in inflation in six months, according to April’s consumer price index. … READ MORE >