The Coupon Renaissance Continues

Overall, 2010 really looks like more of the same that was experienced in 2009. Even though media moguls are visualizing an economic revival, American consumers are still going to be thrifty, going for better value, and generally being very cautious with their checkbooks. Unemployment is an ugly term that does not want to evaporate.

What does this add up to? Not necessarily less wining and dining, but looking for value meals. Chicken dinners at home are going to remain king through 2010. Americans are back in the kitchen cooking.

With your wallet sounding like some kind of a squeaky door that needs oiled badly, you as the consumer are more interested in value. The department store or supermarket that understands this will be the business that benefits the most. Value remains a top priority.

Status and fashion have taken the backseat to saving and innovation. People are wanting to hear phrases like 10% off, buy one get one free, or get your $1 burger here. And if it’s between food and non-food purchases, the food item is the necessary option.

Credit is out and saving is in. The odds are that if your local bank looks like the one in my town, it looks more like an abandoned, dark night club that is getting ready to close, rather than a bank.

It’s difficult to follow an unpredictable economy and quite tricky to predict the new paradigm. But 2010 will probably be more of the same.

Here are top trends that should still be the norm in 2010:
1. Shopping lists are science textbook style.
2. Bargain hunting is the sport of choice.
3. Redefining what is necessary in the household has shifted to new dimensions.
4. Staycation idea articles are headline stories.
5. Generic brands are replacing many brand name products.
6. The dollar store concept has become extremely fashionable.
7. Midnight in the Food Stamp Economy remains to be the best selling novel.
8. Libraries will retain that social club mentality. Get your seat early if possible.
9. “Compulsive hoarding disorder” will continue to keep psychologists busy.
10. Experiments with clothing durability will reach new heights…