Over 5,000 Aussie shoppers have had their say in the 13th annual Product of the Year awards and they’re saying that “convenience is king” when it comes to their shopping needs.
Out of the 37 winners this year, 12 were easy snacks, ready-to-eat products, or frozen meals, although, Aussies were also seeking affordable luxury and indulgent items, with another 12 out of 37 award-winners being creature comforts such as mattresses, deserts, and skincare products.
Life in lockdown has dominated the second half of 2021 for many Australians so it’s no surprise that Aussies are looking for easy and convenient products. This is supported by research from Nielsen Media Research Group that has found that more than one in three Aussies (38%) would switch products if it was more convenient for them.
Product of the Year Director, Sarah Connelly says: “The ongoing and unexpected restrictions have no doubt made Australian household consumption habits shift considerably.
“Now we’re seeing people having to work from home more, manage more people in their household and even in many instances, home-school children, which is leaving the average Aussie short on time and capacity to prepare lavish meals.
“Instead, we are seeing the move towards easy, simple and pre-made meals and snacks, that save people time and leaves them with one less thing to worry about in their day-to-day lives.”
This desire for convenience means that consumers are looking for retailers with strong online-shopping capabilities that are providing the best deals and promotions.
With a third of shoppers voting Woolworths as having the best e-commerce platform and Woolworths and Coles side by side when it came to affordability; holding nearly two thirds of shoppers’ votes, it’s no wonder that Coles took out a massive 11 awards for products and brands exclusive to Coles, and Woolworths took home six awards.
Other important growing considerations for Aussie consumers are whether the products are environmentally friendly, if the product has a Product of the Year logo, freshness, online shopping experience and commitment to sustainability.
