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Financial pressure is reshaping grocery shopping behavior, driving a distinct split between consumer groups. Stressed households increasingly favor online channels for price control and budgeting, consolidating purchases into fewer, larger transactions.
Key Takeaways
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Financial stress drives online shift: Consumers under financial strain are 6 percentage points more likely to buy groceries online, seeking transparency on pricing and discounts.
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Essential spending persists: Even amid rising costs, households, especially younger families, prioritize grocery purchases, adjusting behavior rather than cutting back.
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Value retailers gain share: Walmart and dollar stores capture more grocery spending from stressed consumers, reflecting a pivot toward value and convenience.
