Understanding shopper mindsets is key to encouraging disruption
While many Chinese shoppers reach stores with a pre-researched decision to buy a particular brand, TNS’ Connected Life research shows there is still appetite for new products. So-called ‘Exploratory’ buyers want to explore products available that meet their needs. This mindset presents a real opportunity for brands, particularly in FMCG and other low involvement product categories, which are increasingly commoditised. Shoppers with this type of mindset are easiest to influence, most likely to research online and are the highest spenders, and are prevalent in certain categories such as personal care (28%).
Grace concludes: “As consumers worldwide adopt a more considered approach to their purchases, brand owners and retailers can provide the information – and incentives - they need to make up their minds. This means they must stop thinking in terms of advertisements and start becoming content providers that offer relevant information and offers at every stage of the shopper journey. To be successful, brands, retailers and manufacturers need a deep understanding of how and where people research purchases to ensure the right kind of information is in the right place at the right time.”