Marketing Forecast from Ad-ology

Over-size homes will give way to smaller, more eco-savvy homes with fewer rooms while family rooms and kitchens will grow larger, according to a new survey of future design trends from the International Furnishings and Design Assn. Formal living and dining rooms will become a thing of the past, as separate rooms disappear and blend into spaces that serve many different purposes.

According to ShopperTrak, national retail sales will rise 3.0% during November and December, while foot traffic will decrease 2.2% due to high unemployment rates and gas prices. While consumers are expected to buy a bit more this holiday season than last, they are increasingly sensitive to value. Higher-end stores may have an advantage this season as shoppers seek quality purchases offering perceived value and longevity of use.

Whether you consider yourself a frugal fashionista or a savvy saver, it’s quickly becoming clear that consumers no longer view bargain hunting as a necessary chore, but rather an enjoyable pastime. According to Mintel Inspire, 64% of U.S. moms say they’re spending more time looking for sales, discounts and coupons compared to last year. Retailers should take discounting a step further with promotions that engage and entertain.

Ad-ology Research recently updated their Industry Marketing Insights report for Kitchen Supply/Cookware/Gourmet Stores. The following are the predicted Top 3 Opportunities/Challenges from the report for this industry for the upcoming 12 months:

According to NRF’s 2011 Top Costumes survey, more than 2.6 million men, women and children plan to dress as zombies this Halloween, due in part to the popularity of characters in recent books, television shows and video games. Zombie costumes jumped from #22 in 2010 to #9 on children’s top costume list and from #7 to #4 on the adult list. Americans are expected to spend $2.5 billion on Halloween costumes this year.

Ad-ology Research recently updated their Industry Marketing Insights report for Distilleries. The following are the predicted Top 3 Opportunities/Challenges from the report for this industry for the upcoming 12 months: