Marketing Forecast from Ad-ology

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.

The popularity of the dog-related ads in this year’s Super Bowl proved that caring for the family pet will prompt consumers to open their wallets. But pet parents aren’t content to shop at one specific store. As a result, pet product suppliers will be rolling out more ad campaigns to increase their market share.

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.

Retailers spend plenty to attract consumers to their stores but they also see promise in the online market. To boost online sales this year, retailers plan to promote their sites with the use of email, search and deal of the day promotions. And to keep shoppers engaged with the online channel, many of these operators plan to spend some of their 2012 marketing budget improving the shopper experience at the site.

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.