consumer trends

NRF: Retail sales pick up in January 2023

Retail sales bounced back strongly in January as inflation eased and income grew, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). “Despite inflationary headwinds, January retail sales show the resiliency of consumers in how they manage... more »

Trends emerge for Spring 2023 High Point Market

TrendWatch, International Market Centers’ (IMC) proprietary trend forecast, named three trends at the Spring 2023 High Point Market: Confections, Immersion and Studio. The semi-annual report showcases product available at the April 22-26, 2023, High Point... more »

Trend Report: Express Yourself

Feature image: Rachel Camfield, 2021. Defining oneself is a process of self-discovery. Self expression can take many forms — from clothing, jewelry, artwork, home décor, to everyday items that remind us to stay authentic to... more »

NRF: 2022 holiday sales grew 5.3% to $936.3B

Retail sales during 2022’s November-December holiday season grew 5.3% over 2021 to $936.3 billion, falling short of the National Retail Federation’s (NRF) forecast amid continuing inflation and high interest rates, NRF reported. While holiday growth... more »

GDP growth slows, but consumer spending remains positive

Gross domestic product isn’t likely to grow as much in the final months of 2022 as it did in the third quarter, but consumer spending should remain strong even though its rapid pace is continuing... more »

Record shoppers expected during Thanksgiving weekend

An estimated 166.3 million people are planning to shop from Thanksgiving Day through Cyber Monday this year, according to the annual survey released today by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics. This... more »

Year-over-year retail sales growth continues, NRF reports

Retail sales remained strong on a monthly basis and saw another year-over-year gain in September despite an interest rate hike from the Federal Reserve and continuing inflation, according to the National Retail Federation (NRF). “September... more »

Toy Association names top toy trends for holiday season

The Toy Association reported the top toy trends of the 2022 holiday season — from toys that immerse families in play experiences away from their devices, to purpose-driven play that introduces children to diversity, environmental... more »