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Although there has been some improvement in decreasing inflation, prices remain elevated, and consumers are still facing financial strain. Many people have used up their savings that was built up during the pandemic. Plus, there has been a significant increase in credit card delinquencies, and the number of job opportunities and wage growth have decreased, along with other signs of moderation. Consequently, consumers are starting to cut back on spending and are pushing back against price hikes.

In light of the current economic climate, retailers will need to adapt their tactics in order to save costs. Despite advancements in the global supply chain and the implementation of new technology, finding ways to cut expenses is still challenging due to high input costs. As a result, retailers will need to carefully assess their operations and identify areas where they can improve efficiency in order to lower product prices while still maintaining profitability.

4 tips for retailers

In the upcoming year, retailers should prioritize four main strategies to safeguard their margin and capitalize on the chance to expand their market share:

1. Streamline and optimize your inventory and purchasing process.

Retailers should assess their inventory variety and quantity to cater to a cost-conscious, value-oriented consumer. Use inventory management software and past sales data to accurately forecast demand, which will aid in making informed purchasing decisions and maintaining appropriate stock levels to fulfill customer requirements while minimizing cash flow impact.

2. Highlight your high-end brands.

Premium and luxury brands are less affected by price fluctuations compared to essential and generic brands, as consumers tend to develop stronger brand loyalty towards products with a higher price point over time. The perception of premium brands being synonymous with superior quality encourages repeat purchases and helps maintain profit margins.

3. Reevaluate your trade promotion tactics.

This is always a good practice, especially considering the changing consumer buying patterns. Collaborate with manufacturers to improve partnership and find ways to boost sales in lower-cost product categories. Suppliers may have excess inventory to clear or may offer creative ideas for displays, promotions and advertising.

4. Double down on loyalty programs.

In a price-sensitive market, consumers are more likely to hunt for bargains regardless of the retailer. Loyalty programs significantly enhance customer retention. found that 46% of members in a well-executed loyalty program would not consider switching to another brand. If you do not have a loyalty program, consider implementing one, and if you already have one, promote it and expand its reach.

In order to thrive in a more budget-conscious setting, merchants must enhance their efforts and prioritize the implementation of appropriate technologies to streamline their operations. This includes finding ways to cut costs and enhance efficiency, which will ultimately aid in reducing product prices while maintaining profit margins. Additionally, if there is a prolonged decrease in consumer spending in the future, retailers who make necessary adaptations now are likely to fare better in a challenging environment and reap greater rewards when conditions improve.

How Wipfli can help

If your business is struggling to stay competitive in this challenging environment, Wipfli can help. Our dedicated professionals can help you get a handle on the evolving economic landscape, with actionable insights that you can use to build a more competitive pricing strategy. Speak with an advisor today and learn how you can adapt to meet the needs of a changing marketplace.