Two Retail Grocery Shopping Trends for 2025
New research explores shopper planning and health focuses of various demographic groups
IMAGE CREDIT: Nick Roskelly
As grocery shopping evolves beyond a simple errand to a reflection of shifting consumer preferences and behaviors, new trends present opportunities for innovation in the CPG space. In its 2024 Year in Review special report, 84.51°, the retail data science, insights, and media company helping Kroger and its partners create customer-centric shopper journeys, reveals two critical gaps in today’s grocery shopping experience, especially between generations, and highlights potential solutions that could reshape how consumers shop in the future.
1. Grocery Shopping Planning: A Generational Divide
Grocery shopping planning plays a pivotal role in how consumers navigate their shopping experience. 84.51° insights reveal that younger shoppers struggle with grocery shopping planning more than older, more seasoned shoppers. While established routines and cooking experience make it easier for older generations, younger shoppers often feel overwhelmed. This gap presents a key opportunity for brands and retailers to collaborate on simplifying the planning phase by introducing intuitive digital tools, integrating recipes with shopping lists, and providing clear pricing and stock availability.
2. Innovation in Health-Oriented and Functional Foods
Another key area where shoppers are seeking innovation is health-oriented and functional foods. Over 50% of shoppers are actively searching for high-protein products, and 43% are prioritizing clean ingredients. With increasing demand for functional benefits, especially in categories like protein and beverages, CPG brands have a unique opportunity to meet these needs. 84.51° data also highlights a significant gender gap in health-conscious shopping, with women showing stronger interest in clean, low-fat, and organic products than men.
As consumer preferences shift towards convenience, health, and innovation, the future of grocery shopping lies in understanding these evolving demands. Tools that emphasize ease of use, inspiration, and personalized shopping experiences will be crucial in gaining the confidence of younger shoppers and addressing their unique needs.
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