Suck in the middle: the hole in America’s consumer base
Economist Podcasts
Shifting Sands: Consumer Trends in Middle America
This chapter examines the challenges faced by consumer-focused companies as inflation and a weakened job market pressure middle-class shoppers to seek cheaper alternatives. It contrasts the performance of budget retailers like Burlington and Walmart with mid-range brands like Macy's, highlighting the growing polarization in consumer spending. The chapter also discusses strategies companies are adopting to navigate this shift and the resilience of luxury markets amidst economic uncertainty.
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