KPMG’s eight volume of the Next Gen Retail Series has been released. The survey, conducted via RED C, measures consumer retail attitude and delves into the changing retail landscape during a time marked by increased financial uncertainty and a notable shift towards price-focused purchasing decisions. The full report, uncovers valuable insights into the concerns, behaviours, and attitudes of shoppers and discover a customer who is increasingly prioritising price, value for money and actively adjusting their shopping habits to save money.
Key Insights – Consumer Priorities in Flux
This year’s findings reveal a consumer landscape shaped by financial caution, evolving shopping habits, and a growing demand for authenticity in sustainability. With 3 in 10 feeling less financially secure and over half prioritising price, value is clearly top of mind. Consumers are buying less, seeking discounts, and sticking with in-store shopping, yet they remain open to innovation—embracing new payment options and online platforms. Sustainability continues to matter, but trust is fragile, with many calling for greater transparency and incentives. These insights offer a clear signal: brands must balance affordability with credibility to stay relevant.
Actions for retailers to consider
Based on the current retail environment, retailers and consumer businesses need to adapt to shifting preferences. While shoppers remain focused on price and value, they also expect quality, convenience, choice and a commitment to sustainability. To stay competitive, retailers should focus on understanding and responding to those changing demands. This involves balancing pricing tactics with maintaining perceived value, potentially through flexible pricing strategies. Some retailers are enhancing value through loyalty programmes and bundled offers which can help alleviate consumer price concerns.
Due to the fact that price is no longer the only concern, quality remains a significant factor. Retailers should prioritise maintaining product quality and effectively communicate these efforts to build consumer trust. By investing in product innovation and robust quality control processes, retailers can build trust and loyalty among their customer bases. Retailers that prioritise these approaches will be better equipped to succeed amidst the changing retail landscape.
Get in touch
The pace of change is challenging retailers and consumer businesses like never before. To find out more about how KPMG perspectives and fresh thinking can help you, please get in touch with David O’Kelly, Head of Consumer, Retail & Manufacturing. We’d be delighted to hear from you.
David O’Kelly
Partner
Head of Consumer, Retail & Manufacturing
KPMG in Ireland
E: david.okelly@kpmg.ie
T: +353 87 744 1606
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