In a notable shift within the retail landscape, private label products are becoming increasingly popular among consumers, contributing nearly 8% to global sales growth in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector in the past year, according to recent insights from NIQ. With 53% of global shoppers indicating they are purchasing more private labels, retailers are reimagining these store brands as innovative alternatives to traditional national brands.
Rising Demand for Private Labels
The study reveals a striking 4.3% year-over-year increase in global private label sales, showing strong growth potential as these brands carve out significant share in the marketplace. Furthermore, projections from Technavio indicate a compound annual growth rate of 6.64% for private labels through 2028, signaling sustained consumer interest and brand expansion potential.
Innovation Drives Brand Perception
Retailers are shifting from viewing private labels as mere budget options to positioning them as premium offerings. This transformation is fueled by consumer demand for innovative products that prioritize wellness, sustainability, and convenience. Brands that can effectively adapt and showcase these qualities stand to benefit greatly.
Omnichannel Strategy Becomes Essential
To capitalize on the growing trend, retailers must enhance their omnichannel strategies. Today’s consumers expect private label products to match, if not exceed, the quality and presentation of established national brands. This means robust digital content is essential, with a focus on making private label offerings informative, discoverable, and visually appealing.
The Importance of High-Quality Visuals
Visual appeal plays a crucial role in influencing purchasing decisions. High-resolution images allow consumers to assess product quality and foster trust, simultaneously reducing return rates. With 87% of grocery shopping now conducted via mobile devices, optimizing visuals for smaller screens is increasingly important.
Leveraging CGI for Consistency
Computer-generated imagery (CGI) presents a scalable solution for retailers managing large portfolios of private label products. This technology enables consistent, high-quality product images, which is particularly beneficial for those frequently updating packaging or launching seasonal items.
Detailed Information Enhances Discoverability
Beyond visuals, providing comprehensive product details—such as dietary claims and allergen information—improves discoverability on e-commerce platforms. This is particularly vital for categories witnessing rapid growth, such as gluten-free foods or eco-friendly household items.
Consistency Across Channels
As consumers expect a seamless shopping experience, maintaining consistency in product naming, packaging visuals, and descriptions is critical. A cohesive presentation across online and offline channels not only fosters brand trust but also helps shoppers navigate their choices confidently and efficiently.
Conclusion: Implications for the Retail Sector
The rise of private labels reflects shifting consumer trends and heightened demand for value, quality, and innovation. As retailers adapt to this changing landscape, the focus on strong digital strategies and consistent branding will be pivotal in defining the future of the retail sector. This dynamic evolution will ultimately empower consumers, offering them more choices and enhancing their shopping experiences.
