The market research company Euromonitor has again published its annual report “Top 10 Global Consumer Trends” which reveals the ten strongest consumer trends that can be expected worldwide in 2022. FashionUnited summarized them.
Backup Planners
This trend is about consumers finding creative ways to buy their favorite products when supply chain disruptions are causing massive bottlenecks. They either find creative ways of sourcing or buy a similar product at the next best opportunity.
Climate changers
The trend towards more sustainability remains and it is precisely environmental fear and the climate emergency that are driving environmental activism for a net-zero economy. According to Euromonitor, 35 percent of global consumers were actively reducing their carbon emissions in 2021.
digital seniors
Older consumers are becoming more savvy when it comes to online shopping and are making online purchases more often. The so-called “silver surfers” should therefore definitely be taken into account by brands and online retailers and served with virtual solutions that meet their needs.
Financial aficionados
A democratized management of their money gives consumers the opportunity to improve their financial literacy and security. Euromontior found that more than half of them worldwide believe that they will be financially better off in the next five years.
The Great Life Refresh
This trend confirms what has already become apparent over the two pandemic years: consumers are focusing on personal growth and well-being by making drastic changes in their lives that reflect their values, passions and goals.
Metaverse Movement
Immersive, 3D digital ecosystems are beginning to transform social connections. According to the Euromonitor study, worldwide sales of AR/VR headsets increased by 56 percent from 2017 to 2021 and reached 2.6 billion US dollars (around 2.28 billion euros) last year.
Pursuit of Preloved
This trend was already emerging before the pandemic and is now gaining momentum: second-hand shopping and peer-to-peer marketplaces are thriving as consumers look for unique, affordable and sustainable products.
rural urbanites
Urban consumers are moving to safer, cleaner, and greener areas, often in the countryside.
Self Love Seekers
Authenticity, acceptance and inclusion are paramount in lifestyle choices and buying habits as consumers embrace their true selves.
Socialization paradox
Fluctuating comfort levels are leading to a conflicting return to pre-pandemic life. In 2021, 76 percent of consumers worldwide were taking health and safety precautions when going out of the home.
“Companies need to change in tandem with rapidly evolving consumer preferences. Going back to pre-pandemic times is unlikely to produce the same results,” said Alison Angus, Head of Lifestyles at Euromonitor International.