Beyond the numbers: evolving consumer sentiment in a time of uncertainty

The ways US consumers think and shop are changing profoundly, driven not only by higher prices, but also demographic and geopolitical disruption. Traditional indicators tell part of the story but generally fail to capture the full complexity of evolving consumer sentiment and behavior.

In this webcast, EY-Parthenon Consumer Products and Retail leaders share findings from a multifaceted survey of consumer attitudes and buying patterns, with actionable insights into the behaviors shaping tomorrow’s demand. They will also explore demographic trends — an aging consumer base, changing immigration patterns, declining birth rates, and ongoing urbanization — that are reshaping the composition and priorities of consumer segments.

Key themes we'll explore:

• Findings from the EY-Parthenon Consumer Sentiment Survey, highlighting spending shifts, emotional and financial stressors, and emerging trends
• Attitudinal and behavioral patterns across population segments, with implications for consumer spending, loyalty and brand engagement
• How structural demographic shifts are affecting demand — and separating winners from losers — across consumer products and retail categories

Learning outcomes

• Determine how forces such as inflation and geopolitical tensions are influencing sentiment and buying behavior
• Identify how sentiment-based measures provide a predictive view of consumer behavior and how consumer and retail organizations can improve the way they analyze customer data to anticipate changing demand
• Recognize how changing US demographics are reshaping consumer products and retail markets and implications for companies’ strategy, portfolios and go to market approaches

Panelists:

• Don K. Johnson – Principal, Strategy and Transaction, EY-Parthenon, Ernst & Young LLP | EY - US
• Betti Packman Principal, Consumer Products, Retail, EY-Parthenon, Ernst & Young LLP | EY - US
• Meg Parson – Senior Director, Retail & Consumer Strategy, EY-Parthenon, Ernst & Young LLP
• Tayler Danziger – Senior Director, Retail & Consumer Strategy, EY-Parthenon, Ernst & Young LLP

Moderator:

• Will Auchincloss – EY-Parthenon Americas Retail Sector Leader | EY - US