Analysis of American consumption trends in the post-epidemic era! These categories are worth paying attention to in 2022

According to Jungle Scout's latest consumer trend report, as 2022 enters the post-epidemic era and Americans are freed from the epidemic blockade, the retail market may usher in a wave of retaliatory consumption. 55% of American consumers said they look forward to "treating themselves well" in 2022.

What, where and how will American consumers buy in 2022? Jungle Scout report gives the answers

Consumer Online Shopping Trends

The report shows that in the post-epidemic era, consumers will largely continue the trend of online shopping. In the categories listed below, consumers are more likely to shop online than in-store.

Sports/Fitness Equipment: 104% more likely to buy online than in-store

Electronics: 88%

Home and kitchen supplies: 57%

Office supplies: 59%

Clothing: 37%

Beauty and personal care products: 25%

Consumers are likely to visit their favorite online retailers, including Amazon and Walmart. Apparel shoppers will expand to brands such as American Eagle & Aerie (14% of US consumers shop here) and Nike (13%), as well as platforms such as Etsy (10%) and ASOS (9%).

In addition, brand activism has a significant impact on consumer purchases: 58% of consumers are influenced by brand social activism, meaning their impression of a brand and whether they choose to buy from it is influenced by the brand’s messaging on divisive topics.

This applies to how a brand treats its employees, whether it engages in environmentally friendly practices, and whether its chosen causes and communities align with consumers’ values.

The report states that 78% of consumers purchased gifts online this holiday season (46% shopped exclusively online), while 54% shopped in stores. 67% of consumers purchased holiday gifts on Amazon, while 48% shopped on Walmart.com.

More holiday shoppers searched for specific brands on Walmart.com than on Amazon. 48% of Walmart.com shoppers searched for brands (i.e., “Yankee Candle”) when shopping for holiday gifts, compared to 38% of Amazon shoppers who did so on Amazon.

Retail categories to watch in 2022

To support “treat yourself” spending in 2022, consumers will purchase a few key product categories while doing the majority of their shopping online.

Travel Products

After months of staying at home, travelers may spend some of their money on travel supplies such as luggage, power banks, and TSA-approved toiletries, and they will also purchase pandemic necessities such as vaccine card cases and camping equipment.

Self-Care

The self-care industry has boomed during the pandemic as people seek ways to relax during the global crisis. The growing interest in skincare, beauty, mindfulness and meditation has expanded into sleep, fitness and nutrition. These categories will continue to be in high demand in the future.

clothing

As Americans once again venture out into public to celebrate, strategize and work together, retailers can expect more spending on apparel, especially for clothing related to formal events, nightlife and fitness.

In a survey conducted as early as the third quarter of 2021, most consumers said they rotate the same clothes for at least a few years, buy discounted clothes, and care about how their clothes affect the environment. More than a third said they avoid buying new clothes and even prefer to buy second-hand clothes.

Luxury

In true "treat yourself" spirit, some consumers are splurging on luxury items, with one in five Americans paying full price for lavish holiday gifts this year.

Home Decor, Appliances, and Other Goods

Of consumers purchasing or moving into a new home in 2021, 41% want to upgrade to a larger space, which means more square footage, and 29% will downsize, which may also drive purchases as people decide whether their existing furniture and appliances will fit in their new home.

Some relevant categories include home decor and furniture, kitchen and appliances, home office furniture, and electronics.

Editor ✎ Xiao Zhu/

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