Regulations for consumer goods have changed. Over the past 13 years, TELUS Agriculture and Consumer Goods We tracked how the food and beverage industry was developing. In 2026, the study expanded beyond the US to the UK and Australia. We surveyed more than 3,000 shoppers to understand exactly how their habits are changing globally.
As brands look to the future, three key challenges are defining the market: tight household budgets, lack of interest in ongoing price wars, and declining brand loyalty. To succeed in 2026, companies will need to break away from traditional strategies and focus on three specific areas: price optimization, taste innovation, and brand differentiation.
Maximize margins through price optimization
Even if inflation stabilizes, consumers remain cautious. The 2026 findings confirm that price is the biggest factor influencing purchasing decisions in all three global markets. In the US, 71% of shoppers say they are willing to switch brands for a better price.
This price-driven behavior has fueled the rapid growth of store brands. As shoppers focus on the bottom line, national brands must find ways to prove their value without relying solely on deep discounts. Success in 2026 will involve optimizing promotions using local scenario planning to ensure brands effectively reach deal seekers while protecting margins.
Driving growth through taste innovation
Constant price cuts are a race to the bottom that can damage brand equity. Taste innovation has emerged as a powerful way to break out of this vicious cycle. Our research shows that 59% of consumers will switch brands to try a unique or exciting new flavor.
Focusing on taste allows brands to justify full-price purchases even when budgets are tight. For example, Heinz in Australia said:unbelievable“Regional flavors like Taco and Peri Peri.
Secure consumer choice through brand differentiation
Physical shelves remain the most important point of influence, with 55% of shoppers worldwide making their final choice while standing in the aisle. The brands that will win in 2026 will be those that differentiate themselves through clear, functional benefits, such as clean ingredients, sustainability, and health benefits.
In the UK, brands include: clipper car We used sustainable packaging to stand out in a crowded market. To grab the attention of distracted shoppers, it’s essential to have your brand’s unique “hook” immediately visible on the shelf.
Local Success: Tailored Strategies for Global Growth
Global trends exist, but success in every market requires a localized perspective. American shoppers are the most brand-loyal group we’ve studied, but their loyalty is constantly being tested through digital-first searches for value. With 52% of U.S. consumers now making their final purchase decisions in stores, brands must capture the moment of choice both digitally and in stores.
Meanwhile, shoppers in the UK and Australia showed a higher sensitivity to specific ingredient claims and sustainability. These differences prove that success in 2026 will require more than a one-size-fits-all approach. To be successful, you need to tailor your sales and loyalty strategies to connect with your target shoppers.
Putting Insight into Action
In a dynamic environment, data-driven decisions are the only way to move forward with confidence. TELUS Agriculture and Consumer Goods We provide the digital solutions you need to navigate evolving consumer behavior. Trade Promotion Management Model promotional scenarios and monitor shelf compliance in real time. retail run.
By focusing on the core elements of price, taste, and differentiation, you can move from simply reacting to the market to leading it.
