The consumer market landscape seems to grow more complex all the time. In this episode of Macro Bites, EY-Parthenon Chief Economist Greg Daco and EY-Parthenon Americas Consumer Products Leader Katie Johnson discuss the impact of affordability pressures, the continuing high cost of capital, and persistent geopolitical and supply risks while AI is reshaping how companies drive growth and brand relevance. With pricing tailwinds fading and growth lagging, the conversation is shifting to what “value” really means now and how leading companies can respond.

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Key takeaways

  • Consumers are placing increasing importance on getting value for their money, yet categories with an innovative edge, like beauty and personal care, can still command a premium.
  • Companies can’t rely on efficiencies and pricing alone; they need sharper portfolio strategies, factoring in changes in consumer demand and growing private-label competition.
  • AI delivers the greatest gains when it is used as a strategy accelerator, embedded into workflows, speeding innovation and time-to-market, deepening consumer insights and improving productivity.

Host and featured guest

gregory daco

Gregory Daco
 EY-Parthenon Chief Economist, Strategy and Transactions

image of katie johnson

Katie Johnson
EY-Parthenon Americas Consumer and Health Industry Leader

How EY-Parthenon can help

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EY-Parthenon is a brand under which a number of EY member firms across the globe provide strategy consulting services.