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Slices: How we Shop

USA Today Examines

How We Shop

The following statistics looked rather interesting, especially if you are considering how to market your product. The information came from USA Today via the IFT website.

March 9, 1998 --Grocery store shoppers spend their money on products that reflect their changing lifestyles. Based on an exclusive USA Today analysis, Monday's editions of the newspaper look at how consumers spend their money. The information is based on 1996 figures, the most recent full year for which information is available. How consumers spent $100 at the grocery store in 1996 (and the percentage change from 1986):

$ 50.21 Perishables (+2%). Instore bakery, deli, produce, frozen foods, meat, seafood.

$9.56 Miscellaneous grocery (+16%). Baby foods, spices, baking needs, canned fruits and vegetables.

$9.53 Beverages (-1%). Beer and wine, coffee, tea, juices, soft drinks.

$9.12 Non-edible grocery (-27%). Household supplies, paper, pet food

$5.59 Snack foods (+5%). Candy, cook- ies, nuts.

$5.07 Main courses/entrees (+15%). Prepared foods, pasta, breakfast foods.

$4.01 Health and beauty care (0%).

$3.94 General merchandise (-6%).

$2.97 Other (+21%).

 

The top 10 product categories that saw the largest percentage increase in consumer spending at the grocery store from 1986-1996: 1. Sandwich spreads (+476%) 2. Refrigerated pickles, relishes (+274%) 3. Liquid antacids (+254%) 4. Video cassette rentals (+218%) 5. Packaged diet foods (+207%) 6. Kitchen towels (+206%) 7. Home pregnancy tests (+205%) 8. Contact lens care products (+187%) 9. Condoms (+168%) 10. Bottled water (+154%)

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