The consumer sector in 2030. Trends and questions to consider

Passle

The next 15 years will bring their share of industry upheavals. We believe companies that want to be on top in 2030 must study emerging trends and begin preparing for them now. Certain trends will follow a pattern of predictable growth; others may take more surprising paths. In this article, we cite examples of both types of trends and some of their high-level implications for the consumer sector. We then recommend a set of actions that retail and CPG executives can take now to position themselves for success in the next decade and beyond.

Drawing on our research, expert interviews, and extensive experience working with consumer-facing companies worldwide, we have identified and analyzed the main trends that have begun—and will most likely continue—to affect the consumer industry. Some of them are already top of mind among executives, others less so. The trends can be divided into five categories: the changing face of the consumer, evolving geopolitical dynamics, new patterns of personal consumption, technological advancements, and structural industry shifts (Exhibit 1).