Marketing Forecast from Ad-ology

Shoppers ages 50-54 lead the charge when it comes to purchasing health and beauty products online (52%), and shoppers ages 45-49 are purchasing more food and beverage products online (29%) than any other age group, according to a new study by The Integer Group and M/A/R/C Research. “The flexibility and simplicity of shopping online becomes even more appealing the busier people get,” said Randy Wahl, executive vice president, M/A/R/C Research.

According to recent Mintel research, among healthy snackers, 44% say they tend to eat healthfully most of the time and 42% make it a point to snack on foods that are healthy. Snacks are often an impulsive purchase, and one of convenience. Nearly half (46%) of respondents say it’s hard to find healthy snacks in vending machines or other on-the-go locations. “Increasing accessibility and portability can help maximize usage,” adds Molly Maier, senior wellness analyst at Mintel.

The majority of men use some sort of grooming product today, however, only one quarter of men are currently using facial skincare products such as facial cleansers and moisturizers, lip and eye products, and anti-aging treatments, according to The NPD Group. As such, the men’s facial skincare market is poised for growth. Marketers need to build awareness of the benefits that products offer, as well as show that these products can be seamlessly incorporated into men’s grooming routines.

A new food trend outlook report from Packaged Facts predicts the hot food trends expected for 2012. Among them, a continued interest in ethnic foods, particularly in relation to food trucks; continued interest in the flavors and ingredients of Southern cooking; and in foodservice, more creative, vegetable-centric sandwiches and center-of-the-plate items will be evident. Updated takes on classic desserts will also continue to be featured, with tall layer cakes growing in popularity.

A new report from The NPD Group looks across retail categories and examines consumers’ attitudes towards online shopping. The category that most consumers reported having shopped for online (researched or browsed, regardless of whether a purchase resulted) in the past 12 months were books, stationery or office supplies (48%). The apparel and consumer electronics categories follow, each with 46%.

According to recent Mintel research, 17% of coffee drinkers say they prefer their coffee one cup at a time. Not surprisingly, the most popular draw for single-cup coffee lovers is convenience. Seventy-nine percent of those who enjoy single-cup coffee agree that they drink it because it’s convenient to brew. Meanwhile, 60% cite the ability to brew a hot cup every time instead of reheating a full pot and 55% say they like the variety available in pods.