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
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 >
Senior Loan Officer Survey: Progress halts as inflation rebounds in Q1
Progress toward normalized lending practices generally halted in the first quarter as the Federal Reserve turned more hawkish amid the rebound in inflation, according to data in a Fed report announced on Monday. … READ MORE >
Maintaining margins amid California’s minimum wage increase: Strategies for fast food operators
Operators in the fast-food sector will need to adapt to tighter operating margins to accommodate new labor cost levels. … READ MORE >
Cautious, but optimistic, consumer products M&A climate for 2024
Add-on acquisitions are continuing to account for a larger share of deals. These acquisitions will be attractive for buyers given their cost effectiveness. … READ MORE >
Consumer products holiday season insights: E-commerce helps drive holiday sales growth
As the digital buying experience grows in importance, companies must focus on their technology platforms. … READ MORE >