Value, Prestige Brands Faring Well in Recession

It is far from shocking that shoppers of all demographics have flocked to value brands as a strategy to save money in the current recession. But it might be a surprise that many are also increasing their purchasing of premium brands. According to latest IRI Times & Trends Report, “The Value/Premium Dichotomy,” value brands are growing rapidly in terms of dollars, mid-tier brands are lagging and premium brands are picking up steam.

On a unit sales basis, value brands enjoyed more growth in 2009 than 2008, while premium brand sales shrank just over 1% and mid-tier brands shrank nearly 3%, according to IRI

“Several shopper trends have converged to create this dichotomy,” said Thom Blischok, president of IRI Consulting and Innovation. “The most obvious trend is the move to trade down. Shoppers have moved away from their traditional brands to value brands, including both retailers’ private brands as well as economy brands from national brand manufacturers.”

But, shoppers are also focused on premium brands through what IRI has dubbed “sophisticated splurging.” They are holding onto the premium brands they crave but are purchasing them at value stores. Premium brand purchases have grown the most at dollar stores, supercenters and Wal-mart, but are shrinking at grocery, drug, mass merchandise and club stores, IRI reported.

In addition, retailers have dramatically increased the sophistication of their private brand strategies. Many now offer high-end private brands that offer a premium experience at a lower cost versus premium national brands.

More info: http://us.infores.com

Poll Shows 42% of Hispanics Are Skipping the Dentist

Results from a 2008 Gallup-Healthways poll show that 42% of Hispanics have not visited the dentist in the past 12 months, even though the American Dental Association recommends having regular dental check-ups and cleanings. In contrast, 29% of all Americans responded that they did not see a dentist in the prior year. To raise awareness in the Hispanic community about the importance of oral health, even in times of financial strain, Dr. Cesar Sabates, an active member of the Hispanic dental community in Florida, is collaborating with Crest Pro-Health to make sure Hispanics pay attention to key areas that dentists check the most: cavities, gingivitis, plaque, stain, sensitivity and breath.

“Skipping regular dental care is risky and can lead to serious and costly tooth and gum problems in the long run. Having a daily dental care routine that includes a toothpaste that helps prevent conditions like cavities and gum disease among others, such as Crest Pro-Health, is an optimal and preventative way to maintain a healthy mouth all year round, especially when regular visits to the dentist are not possible,” said Dr. Sabates.

Disinfectant, Antimicrobial Chemicals Demand To Rise 3.6% Annually Through 2013

Demand for disinfectant and antimicrobial chemicals is projected to increase 3.6% annually to $1.2 billion in 2013, according to data from Freedonia Group, Inc.

The Cleveland, OH-based market research company said demand for disinfectant chemicals in industrial, institutional, commercial and consumer markets is expected to grow, despite considerable scientific disagreement about the necessity of using disinfectant chemicals in many of their current applications. Gains in the consumer market—the fastest-growing overall—will be driven by fears of foodborne and other pathogens, as disinfectant active ingredients are being added to many traditional cleaning products that have not typically contained such ingredients. In the health care market, there is broad agreement that aggressive infection control programs are necessary. As a result, it will remain one of the largest outlets for these products.

More info: www.freedoniagroup.com