Acosta Group has unveiled its 2025 consumer predictions, highlighting key retail and foodservice industry trends. The forecast emphasizes evolving consumer priorities, including personalization, authenticity, innovation, convenience, and entertainment.
“Savvy consumers are redefining value, demanding authenticity and personalized experiences from brands and retailers,” said Colin Stewart, EVP of Business Intelligence at Acosta Group. The extensive research and proprietary shopper data insights offer actionable strategies for brands and retailers navigating economic uncertainty.
Acosta Group Defines a New Standard for Value
Consumers prioritize value beyond discounts, seeking meaningful connections with brands and retailers. According to Kathy Risch, SVP of Thought Leadership at Acosta Group, shoppers want quality and authenticity to align with their values.
Generational perspectives reveal nuanced definitions of value:
- Gen Z favors low prices with no additional effort for discounts.
- Millennials prioritize high quality at competitive prices.
- Boomers value products that deliver amazement.
Retailers and brands must innovate to meet these expectations. A recent survey found that 84% of consumer packaged goods brands plan to launch innovations in 2025 to enhance value and drive traffic.
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Affordable Indulgence Grows in 2025
The demand for “affordable indulgence” is reshaping the foodservice landscape. Consumers crave premium ingredients and unique flavors that elevate their dining experiences while offering value. Risch noted that fast-casual operators excelled in 2024 by balancing quality and affordability, achieving single-digit growth despite economic challenges.
Key takeaways for foodservice operators in 2025:
- Maintain affordability while enhancing overall dining experiences.
- Leverage Instagram-worthy dishes to attract visibility and drive traffic.
- Focus on value-driven menus featuring innovative and indulgent offerings.
Acosta Group Highlights Retail Media’s Role in Shopper Engagement
Retailers are transforming in-store experiences into dynamic platforms for retail media. Advanced AI technologies enable personalized connections that enrich shopper engagement while driving loyalty and sales.
“In-store media options, when executed strategically, create seamless and meaningful shopper experiences,” said Cody Tusberg, SVP of Retail Media at Acosta Group. Smart carts and retailer apps are emerging as practical tools, providing personalized ads, coupons, and navigation features.
The challenge lies in balancing personalization with consumer privacy concerns, ensuring technologies enhance rather than overwhelm the shopping journey.
Social Commerce Gains Momentum, Reports Acosta Group
Social media continues to blend personalized content with retail, creating a growing channel for brands. Platforms like TikTok and YouTube drive discovery and purchases, particularly among younger generations. Acosta Group found 52% of Gen Z and 22% of Millennials made social media purchases in the past three months.
“Social commerce offers entertainment, personalization, and convenience,” Risch said. Brands must build trust through engaging, authentic content to convert clicks into purchases. According to recent data, 51% of shoppers interacted with social media ads, but only 24% completed purchases, highlighting room for growth.
Health and Wellness Trends
Consumers increasingly focus on health and wellness, emphasizing transparency and personalized solutions. Integrative medicine, wearable technology, and “food as medicine” reshape consumer expectations.
The “food as medicine” movement reflects growing awareness of nutrition’s role in health. Brands should emphasize clear nutritional claims and transparency to build trust. GLP-1 weight loss medications also influence consumer behavior, driving innovation in health-focused food products.
Stewart noted, “We are excited to collaborate with brands and retailers to enhance the value offered to shoppers in 2025. Our insights guide strategies to build personalized connections, elevate experiences, and drive loyalty.”