Inflationary pressures have been present in the appliances industry since late 2020. Starting with production capacity challenges, to labour and persistent semiconductor shortages, to elevated commodity prices. In 2022, inflationary pressures will come from a new front: expected production reduction resulting from lockdowns in China. In the long run, inflation in the appliances market could prove to be sticky.
Adults buying toys for themselves is giving a much-needed boost to companies in the toys and games industry as the number of children declines. Toy companies are now launching products that are designed exclusively for these kidults.
We discuss what the "the future home" means for India, and how consumers' perceptions of homes have changed over the last two years. We also discuss the importance of sustainability and key themes that companies are leveraging to appeal to consumers’ needs.
Samsung enjoyed a stellar 2021, as high demand continued to be driven by pandemic-related interest in TVs, smart wearables and headphones. To fight the competition from China, especially in smartphones, Samsung offered affordable 5G lines of smartphones, targeting tech-savvy but value-seeking consumers. Understanding the power of cross-selling and keeping consumers in one ecosystem, Samsung invested in the Samsung Galaxy ecosystem and service development, as a reaction to its closest rival Apple.
Vietnamese brands across diverse categories have experienced good growth in recent years. Supporting government policies, rising income levels, expansion in retail beyond urban centres, evolving marketing strategies and the right pricing strategies are among factors that are helping local brands grow in the country.
For almost 18 months, consumers were focused on basic food preparation and cooking appliances. In 2021, the focus shifted to eating better, home health and hygiene, and personal feel-good products. These habit-forming trends are expected to endure as consumers focus on themselves.