Positive trends in the housewares aisle
During the height of the pandemic last year, consumers also embarked on some entirely new in-home behaviors. Health and wellness extended well beyond in-home exercise and muscle-aches remedies. Many people sought new ways to make their homes and working environments healthier, as illustrated by rises in hand-held specialty cleaning appliances and humidifiers. Many households also became new pet owners, creating greater need for a higher level of carpet and upholstery cleaning.
Consumers are still looking for safe ways to bring back missed connections with families and friends, leading to more outdoor entertaining and a need for more casual table settings. Some people looked to expand their cooking repertoire, bringing new opportunities for a host of specialty preparation gadgets and cooking appliances, while rising sales of specialty drink makers and barware tools are setting the stage for refreshed experiences.
“Consumers may have been stuck at home through the peak of the pandemic, but that time elevated the importance placed on the comforts of home,” Derochowski said. “The future of home product sales still remains uncertain on many levels, however these behavioral changes are showing staying power that the home industry shouldn’t ignore.”