Food and beverage
Consumerism means that people look at food not just as a source of calories, but also as a lifestyle
product and even a mark of personal distinction, e.g., distinguishing oneself by eating ‘modern’
packaged foods in the Third world, or Icelandic free-range lamb in the developed countries.
The practice of eating-out has become a trend among urban workers, students and even families
because of work or there is no food available at home. In Malaysia, Halal status has been the most
important factor for Muslim consumers.
Health & Medicine
Healthcare is part of the social and government sector in many parts of the world, but in others it is a
consumer service. Lifestyle drugs – prescription drugs that address conditions that are chronic but
not life-threatening – have become popular worldwide. Medical tourism is on the rise as a distinct
form of consumer-focused medicine. These and other trends push medicine more towards the
consumer realm. Malaysia is ranked among the top five destinations for medical / health tourism.
Factors such as cost-effective treatments, skilled medical professionals and government support are
driving the growth.
There is a big concern on dietary pattern such as eating outside, skipping meals and relying on fast
food. This dietary pattern contributes to non-communicable diseases associated with over nutrition
namely obesity, hypertension, coronary diseases and cancers.
Media
Popular media reinforce the idea of consumerism as a lifestyle and carry the advertising meant to
draw consumers to products and services. Consumers in Malaysia now have more access to a media
where more people have more variety of sources for information and entertainment through
different devices. Apart from traditional newspapers, magazines and television, sharing information
through social media has become a trend. Some consumers prefer smartphones for their desirable
features and advance ability in term of media accessibility.
Relationships to Other Top 20 Trends
Middle-class growth
Relationship description - Over the last century the emergence of
large middle-income groups in developed
countries societies has gone hand-in-hand
with the creation of modern consumerism.
Rising middle classes are now helping
spread consumerism to developing
countries.
Change in the future - Much of future growth in consumerism will
be driven by the expansion of the global
middle class in developing countries such
as China, India, Brazil, Russia, and Mexico.