Weekly Newsletter - 29.08.2024

The rise of hybrid shopping, booming femcare foods in Japan & Applied Nutrition Eyes IPO

Author

NutriPower
August 29, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 5 minutes

THE LATEST IN SUPPLEMENTS AND NUTRITION

The modern shopping landscape is rapidly evolving, with technology playing an increasingly pivotal role. A recent PYMNTS survey highlights that approximately 40% of consumers are now click-and-mortar enthusiasts, blending online and in-store shopping experiences. This survey, encompassing 14,000 consumers across seven countries, reveals that 25% of shoppers use digital tools to enhance their in-store journeys, while 14% prefer to order online and pick up their purchases on-site. In the U.S., 65% of the 2,400 surveyed Americans reported higher satisfaction due to digital assistance, underscoring the growing importance of technology in retail.

Brick-and-mortar sales remain robust, totaling $7 trillion in 2023 and projected to reach $8.34 trillion by 2026. Click-and-mortar sales are also on the rise, with figures jumping from $95.9 billion in 2022 to $113.2 billion in 2023, and projections for 2024 hitting $132.76 billion. The annual growth rate through 2030 is expected to be a staggering 16.8%. Interestingly, Capital One Shopping found that 85% of buy-online, pickup-in-store shoppers made additional in-store purchases when collecting their orders, highlighting the synergy between digital and physical retail.

The survey also sheds light on demographic trends, revealing that young and affluent consumers are leading the charge in online shopping. Twenty-one percent of consumers shop online weekly, a figure that rises to 27% among high-income shoppers and 35% for Generation Z. Additionally, one in four consumers shops from a digital marketplace weekly, with this number increasing to 33% for wealthy consumers and 37% for Gen Z.

The allure of click-and-mortar shopping is clear: 48% of consumers want to avoid shipping fees, and 77% prefer to see an item before taking it home. This hybrid model not only saves time but also caters to the preferences of younger consumers, who are more easily influenced by their peers. As the retail landscape continues to evolve, the integration of digital and physical shopping experiences promises to redefine consumer behavior and satisfaction.

NutraIngredients

Japan's functional food market is booming, especially in femcare. In FY2023, 1,443 Foods with Function Claims were notified, with significant growth in products supporting women's health. Companies like Asahi and Tokiwa are leading innovations. Regulatory challenges remain, but opportunities abound in this dynamic sector.

BestLife

As summer ends, UVB rays weaken, increasing the risk of vitamin D deficiency, which can harm bone health and cause muscle issues. Experts recommend supplements during autumn and winter, especially for those over 70. Safe sun exposure and a vitamin D-rich diet are also crucial for maintaining optimal levels.

A recent study in Nutrients reveals that 60% of American baby foods fail to meet WHO nutritional guidelines. Alarmingly, nearly all products feature prohibited claims, with 70% lacking adequate protein and 25% exceeding calorie limits. Urgent improvements and stricter regulations are needed to enhance infant food quality.

Applied Nutrition plans to float on the London market by year-end, potentially valuing the company at £500 million. Backed by JD Sports, the supplements group saw a 41% profit increase and 42% revenue growth. CEO Thomas Ryder is optimistic, citing positive investor meetings and strategic leadership appointments.

The webinar on dietary supplements will cover advanced analytical techniques and quality control, featuring expert Dr. Jinchuan Yang. Attendees will learn about chromatography technologies, ingredient verification, and compliance strategies to ensure product consistency and consumer trust. Stay updated with industry advancements and enhance your market competitiveness.