However beautiful the strategy, you should occasionally look at the results.
The American consumer has proven incredibly resilient. Despite inflation, rising interest rates, costly housing, higher insurance prices, and continued economic uncertainty, consumers keep spending. And for good reason, because consumer …
Consumers Drive the Economy—But How Much More Can They Take? Read More
Government officials can point to improving inflation, economic growth, and resilient consumer spending. Those numbers matter—but they do not necessarily describe the economy consumers experience. For brands, that distinction is …
Brands Should Listen to Consumers—not Just Economic Talking Points Read More
According to the Wall Street Journal, about one million potential car buyers have dropped out of the market because new vehicles have simply become too expensive. That should terrify U.S. automakers. …
Do U.S. Automakers Understand That Most Americans Can’t Afford a $50,000 Car? Read More
Inflation has been squeezing Americans for years, yet consumer spending has remained surprisingly resilient. On the surface, it doesn’t make sense. If groceries, rent, insurance, and utilities all cost more, …
Understanding Consumer Spending Amid Inflation Read More
For years, economists and politicians pointed to strong employment numbers and resilient consumer spending as proof that the American consumer was doing fine. But beneath the headlines, there are growing …
Are Consumers Running Out of Money? Read More
The idea of a “K-shaped economy” isn’t just an economist’s talking point—it’s a reality reshaping how consumers live, spend, and make decisions. One arm of the “K” represents those who …
Marketing in a K-Shaped Economy: What Marketers Need to Know Read More
Every brand team has seen the data: consumers are stressed. Inflation, rising healthcare costs, housing, groceries—you name it. Survey after survey reinforces the same narrative: people feel financially squeezed. This …
Consumers Say They’re Stressed About Prices—So Why Are They Buying $250 Pillows? Read More
There’s a moment in the latest Jeep Wagoneer commercial that unintentionally says more about today’s auto market than the brand likely intended. A customer looks around, takes it in, and …
The Hidden Pricing Crisis in the Auto Industry Read More
Whenever a new inflation report shows a slight dip, the headlines rush to call it good news. Technically, it is—slower inflation means prices aren’t rising as fast. But for families …
The Reality of Inflation: Brands Must Stay Connected to Customers Read More
In late 2025 and early 2026, a curious economic story has unfolded in the United States: consumers are feeling squeezed — but their spending is holding strong. Headlines show persistent worries …
Why American Consumers Remain Resilient Despite the High Cost of Living Read More