Published 28 May 2025

8 min read

Tariff-led uncertainty and implicit price hikes are accelerating consumer wariness, adding to an already cautious trading backdrop informed by cost-of-living crises, mistrust of mark-ups and (secondary) sustainable living objectives. We explore the ingenious ways businesses can support their increasingly consumption-conscious customers, leaning into them spending less and garnering loyalty along the way.

Monetise what Exists

Foreground the Source

Mainstream Aspiration

Support Canny Customers

There has never been a more prudent time to review strategies pertaining to inventory that already exists, including that which is nearly new or damaged. Huge opportunity has always existed here – tariff uncertainty simply serves to heavily accentuate the fact, to create a strong value-for-money proposition for customers.

There has never been a more prudent time to review strategies pertaining to inventory that already exists, including that which is nearly new or damaged. Huge opportunity has always existed here – tariff uncertainty simply serves to heavily accentuate the fact, to create a strong value-for-money proposition for customers.

Summary

Monetise what Exists

There has never been a more prudent time to review strategies pertaining to inventory that already exists, including that which is nearly new or damaged. Huge opportunity has always existed here – tariff uncertainty simply serves to heavily accentuate the fact, to create a strong value-for-money proposition for customers.

Foreground the Source

Product sources will increasingly come into focus as consumers look beyond the veneer of the brand to how, where and at what cost products are made. Mark-ups are under the microscope and paying for a name is no longer enough to justify a hefty price tag. Meanwhile, tariff tumult is accelerating the need to make local production a price-sensitive reality.

Mainstream Aspiration

As highlighted in our 2024 report The Accessible Luxury Opportunity, there’s huge opportunity for high-street brands to pick up priced-out aspirational luxury consumers wanting to spend less. Mark-up mistrust in the luxury sector is also responsible for the massive boom in dupe culture, driving retaliatory sentiment and a new irreverence for labels.

Support Canny Customers

Brands need to actively be seen supporting consumers who have less money to spend and want more from their purchases. Repair and upcycling tools and advice show you’re a business that cares about its customers. Likewise, delivering products that are multifunctional and thus extra hard-working will appeal to shoppers on a strict budget.

Leaning into Spending Less: Futureproofing Strategies

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Topics

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Want to see the full report?

Offering access to over 350 consumer and cross-industry reports annually, Stylus Membership is your window to tomorrow’s most exciting opportunities.

We already arm more than 500 of the world’s most forward-thinking brands and agencies with the creative insights they need to make transformative business decisions.

We’d love to do the same for you.

Book a demo with us today to discover more.

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