Marketing Forecast from Ad-ology

A new report from the NPD Group called “E-Commerce Hot Topic,” examines consumers’ attitudes towards online shopping across retail categories. The category that most consumers reported having shopped for online in the past 12 months were books, stationery or office supplies, followed by apparel and consumer electronics. As social media continues to grow in importance, it should be an area where retailers focus on connecting with consumer

Competition for convenience shoppers is increasing as grocery and other retail outlets are targeting these on-the-go consumers. These retail outlets are increasingly filling the needs of consumers looking for a convenient location, a quick grab-and-go purchase, and long hours of operation. Non-traditional outlets are also winning convenience consumers’ visits on price, selection, quality, and value – attributes that may not typically be associated with convenience stores.

A new survey from Accounting Principals finds that U.S. workers spend nearly $3,000 a year on coffee and lunch. Half (50%) of the American workforce buys coffee regularly at work, spending more than $20 a week on coffee, an average of approximately $1000 a year. Two thirds (66%) of American workers buy their lunch instead of packing and bringing it, spending an average of $37 per week. This means that on average American workers are shelling out nearly $2,000 a year on lunch alone.

More retailers are enhancing their e-commerce navigation tools, and also are more focused on mobile commerce and social media than a year ago, according to new data from The E-tailing Group. In addition, retailers are making moves to set themselves apart from the competition beyond a reliance on promotional tactics. To that end, retailers are highlighting particular brand offerings, exclusive products or the latest trends as a primary means to differentiate themselves. Mobile strategies are advancing quickly, too.

U.S. sales of stereo headphones priced above $100 more than doubled in 2011, according to The NPD Group. While models under $100 make up the majority of headphone sales, models priced above $100 have doubled their unit share to 6%, and now account for more than $342 million in sales through November of 2011. Products emphasizing brand, sound quality, and celebrity endorsements have driven much of this growth.

The use of technology for shopping by 18-25 year olds is significantly overrated, according to new research from LIM College. In fact, more than 68% of the 18-25 year olds surveyed “prefer to shop in stores than online for apparel and shoes.” However, they are using the Web for gathering information — with 66% using the Web to browse and compare prices.