Recently Emily Trentacosta, Vice President of Strategy and Insights at AMC Global, wrote for Advertising Week on “Understanding Complex Hispanic Audiences With the Right Marketing Research Approach.” In the article, she delves into the complexities of reaching and understanding this diverse and growing audience by using the right market research strategies.
Welcome to our "Why I Love MR" Q&A Series! We have talked with both internal AMC Staff and some of our clients, so keep an eye out for fun interviews coming up exploring all the reasons why those of us who work in market research are so passionate about what we do! Interested in being interviewed and sharing why YOU love MR? Reach out to us.
Check out this round-up of our ongoing AMC Global study produced in partnership with OpinionRoute, a leader in insights process management. The consumer behavior study findings are designed to help clients and industry leaders navigate quickly changing consumer behavior.
Miriam Konz, AMC Global EVP, recently published the article "Differentiating sustainability messaging in a climate of bad actors" in Quirk’s. In the article, Miriam talks about how combating greenwashing is crucial for sustainable brands to retain consumer trust and positive brand image. Market research insights can help brands build the needed authenticity, transparency and credibility—serving as a pivotal force to combat greenwashing and drive meaningful change.
Welcome to our "Why I Love MR" Q&A Series! We have talked with both internal AMC Staff and some of our clients, so keep an eye out for fun interviews coming up exploring all the reasons why those of us who work in market research are so passionate about what we do! Interested in being interviewed and sharing why YOU love MR? Reach out to us.
The beauty industry continues to undergo transformations in packaging practices, especially on the sustainability front. The article “Beauty packaging gets a makeover with growing number of refillable options” in Retail Dive, explores this trend and the impact on consumer behavior. This shift, driven by the industry's acknowledgment of its contribution to environmental waste and the desire to offer more sustainable choices, is a complex one. The success of this rise in refillable options relies on consumer adoption which, the article claims, remains uncertain.
Welcome to our "Why I Love MR" Q&A Series! We have talked with both internal AMC Staff and some of our clients, so keep an eye out for fun interviews coming up exploring all the reasons why those of us who work in market research are so passionate about what we do! Interested in being interviewed and sharing why YOU love MR? Reach out to us.
We hope to see you at The Quirk's Event New York later this July at the Javits Center—AMC Global’s Executive Vice President of Growth and Innovation, Lea Ben-Akiva, will be there! We look forward to the Quirk’s Events as they are specifically tailored for the insights industry, offering a diverse range of sessions covering various aspects of marketing research and they always have an engaging expo hall. Networking opportunities abound in the lively and collaborative atmosphere at these shows—and we are looking forward to yet another highly interactive experience! This year’s theme is all about driving your research forward.
Quirk’s is known for fantastic networking events, and we are excited to catch the Women in Research pre-show happy hour at 6:00 PM on July 18th. This event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with market research professionals from around the world and build valuable new relationships—before the show even starts. Whether you're a local or visiting New York for the conference, this gathering is a must-go. Are you coming? Feel free to reach out to Lea to meet up.
Welcome to our "Why I Love MR" Q&A Series! We have talked with both internal AMC Staff and some of our clients, so keep an eye out for fun interviews coming up exploring all the reasons why those of us who work in market research are so passionate about what we do! Interested in being interviewed and sharing why YOU love MR? Reach out to us.
PRESS RELEASE
Welcome to our "Why I Love MR" Q&A Series! We have talked with both internal AMC Staff and some of our clients, so keep an eye out for fun interviews coming up exploring all the reasons why those of us who work in market research are so passionate about what we do! Interested in being interviewed and sharing why YOU love MR? Reach out to us.
PRESS RELEASE
Welcome to our "Why I Love MR" Q&A Series! We have talked with both internal AMC Staff and some of our clients, so keep an eye out for fun interviews coming up exploring all the reasons why those of us who work in market research are so passionate about what we do! Interested in being interviewed and sharing why YOU love MR? Reach out to us.
Welcome to our "Why I Love MR" Q&A Series! We have talked with both internal AMC Staff and some of our clients, so keep an eye out for fun interviews coming up exploring all the reasons why those of us who work in market research are so passionate about what we do! Interested in being interviewed and sharing why YOU love MR? Reach out to us.
Miriam Konz, AMC Global EVP, recently published the article "Strike an ESG Balance That Works for You and Your Target Audience" in Greenbook. With data based on a wave of our consumer behavior study, "What Consumers Expect Regarding Corporate ESG Initiatives," Miriam was able to share some insights and tips for navigating this space.
Recently published in The Future of Commerce, the article "CPG Trends 2023: Proving Value in an Inflation-Weary World" takes a look at the current macro-state of the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry—and the trends that are expected to shape it over the next few years. The CPG industry has always been dynamic and constantly evolving, and keeping up with the latest trends is crucial for businesses to stay competitive and meet the changing needs and preferences of consumers.
The beverage market is constantly evolving, and 2023 is no exception. From hydration to energy and relaxation, beverage brands and manufacturers are tapping into consumer demand for drinks that do more than just quench their thirst. With such a quickly changing space, it is vital for brands to understand the trends to plan for new product entries, as well as to innovate and further develop current offerings.
AMC Global's Emily Trentacosta recently was published in Total Retail magazine, with her article "Inflated Prices, Deflated Consumers: The Impact of Price Increases on Shopper Behavior." In the article, Emily shares findings from a recent wave of our ongoing consumer behavior study, "Impact of Price Increases on Consumer Behavior."
In just a short time The Quirk’s Event Chicago will be kicking off at the Sheraton Grand! Our Lea Ben-Akiva, Executive Vice President of Growth and Innovation, will be in attendance at the event. This two-day gathering on March 27-28 (plus the Women in Research kick-off reception on March 26th) of client-side researchers and their vendor partners will explore all aspects of market research and insights. Lea will be jumping into the lively expo hall and catching sessions from Tyson, Kraft Heinz, Molson Coors, Johnsonville, White Claw and Kellogg's to name a few.
BLUE BELL, PA, UNITED STATES, February 22, 2023 -- AMC Global, an international custom market research firm specializing in launch strategies and brand tracking, has hired street painter and muralist Nate Baranowski to create a new visual experience at their headquarters near Philadelphia. The project is part of the company’s larger plan to create appealing spaces as staff come back to the physical offices after remote working during the pandemic.
AMC Global and OpinionRoute, a leader in insights process management, have released the latest wave of our ongoing consumer behavior study. The new findings look at how current price increases for consumer packaged goods (CPG) have impacted shopping behavior—like cutting back on purchases, changing brands or buying larger pack sizes. Shoppers shared that the categories of eggs, fresh produce, meat and dairy have been hit hardest by inflated costs.
What: A tips and insights sheet “Consumers and Sustainability: Ways to Innovation and Communication” was published today by AMC Global, an international custom market research firm specializing in launch strategies and brand tracking.
TMRE in San Antonio in November was a cornucopia of knowledge and networking, and the learning continues with this week’s delivery of the All Things Insights / TMRE “Insights Spends and Trends Report.” This benchmarking report showcases how changing mindsets and spending patterns are manifesting in today’s world, and includes thoughts from innovation leaders like Karen Kraft from Johnsonville, Shilpa Khanna from Clorox, Michael Nevski from Visa, and more!
We are looking forward to getting together with the hundreds of market research and consumer insights executives at TMRE in San Antonio this November to connect, network and learn what's new and next in research practices. Our Executive Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Innovation, Miriam Konz, will be there! TMRE works toward a common goal in our industry—advancing the insights practice, developing respected leaders and driving bottom line impact with insights.
AMC Global and OpinionRoute, a leader in insights process management, look at consumer expectations regarding corporate ESG “Environmental, Social and Governance” initiatives in the latest wave of their ongoing consumer behavior study. Many study participants share that Social initiatives should be prioritized by companies through funding and involvement, including initiatives like programs for hunger/food insecurity and focus on local community impact issues.
AMC Global and OpinionRoute have released the latest wave of their ongoing consumer behavior study. The new findings uncover how consumer attitudes differ by generation—and by gender—regarding corporate “Environmental, Social and Governance” (ESG) matters.
AMC Global and OpinionRoute have released the latest wave of their ongoing consumer behavior study. The new findings uncover how corporate “Environmental, Social and Governance” (ESG) matters impact consumer behavior in the marketplace. The ESG issues examined in the study range from environmental issues, to company ethics and structure, to diversity, equity and inclusion efforts.
Last month, Food Industry Executive published an article by Jamie Feltes about three ways food and beverage companies are impacting sustainability metrics. The article, “Sustainable Food and Beverage Industry Practices Start with a Strategy,” looks at ESG goals like circular economy contribution, upcycling food, and company energy efficiencies.
Ongoing research into consumer behavior shows complex sentiments and brand perceptions surrounding sustainability practices
Today AMC Global released a new white paper, “How Your Brand’s Sustainable Practices Are Impacting Shopper Behavior.” The paper outlines the firm’s original research into consumer opinions and behavior in response to brand sustainability actions such as: environmentally friendly packaging; ingredient sourcing; manufacturing; and supply chain practices. It also looks at the impact of sustainable practices on brand perception, and how that contributes to market success.
AMC Global and OpinionRoute (a leader in insights process management) conducted the latest wave of their ongoing consumer behavior study to discover preferences and perceptions regarding product sustainability. Results revealed that while many want sustainably produced and sourced products, price remains the top consideration when making purchasing decisions. Consumers believe that these products are more expensive than their mainstream counterparts, and recent inflation and price increases are making affordability a key concern. A high percentage of respondents say that it is hard to tell which brands are sustainable and which are not, and many look to trusted retailers and product packaging to help guide them.
AMC Global, an international custom market research firm specializing in launch strategies and brand tracking, has added new members to its U.S. market research and project management teams. They have added five new hires: Paige Copple, Jessica Gines, Ameila Gulding, Lettisha Omo and Kate Soifer, whose skills and background will contribute to the company’s mission for excellent customer service and project management, as well as supporting ongoing business growth.
The 27th annual Product Pacesetters™ report from Information Resources, Inc. (IRI®) was released last week. The report features the top new food and beverage and nonfood product launches. Some major trends in CPG product preferences were uncovered.
We are thrilled to get back into the conference circuit this year at The Quirk’s Event New York, taking place in July at Javits Center. Our very own Lea Ben-Akiva, Executive Vice President of Growth and Innovation, will be in attendance at the event. The Quirk’s Events are curated for the insights industry—featuring sessions on all aspects of marketing research and an active expo hall. With ample networking opportunities and a fun atmosphere, the Quirk’s Event is designed to be inclusive and collaborative.
We have all seen it on the store shelves and coolers, beverages with functional ingredients promising everything from heart health to better sleep to digestive support. Our executive vice president Miriam Konz writes about why we are seeing more and more functional ingredient additions to our beverages in her article for Beverage Daily, “Form AND function: The reasons behind the functional ingredient beverage trend.”
AMC Global’s ongoing research shows many consumers feel sustainability practices like recyclability and reduction of waste in manufacturing is important
Along with our partner, OpinionRoute, we conducted the latest wave of our ongoing consumer behavior study to discover preferences and perceptions regarding adult beverages, particularly regarding sustainability. Results revealed sustainability impact on consumer purchase decisions ranks relatively low for adult beverages, with taste and price ranking higher in importance. However, this does not mean that consumers are not looking at sustainability practices, with many saying they do think sustainability is important and that it somewhat influences choice. For sustainability in beverage packaging, study respondents say recyclability is most important. For sustainability in beverage production, reducing waste in the manufacturing process is most important to consumers.
To view a full graphic representation of the study, click here or on the callout below.
10 March 2022 - Blue Bell, PA - AMC Global, an international custom market research firm specializing in launch strategies and brand tracking, has promoted multiple employees throughout the company. As the company continues its rapid growth, Erin Russeck takes on the newly formed role of Chief Research Officer, and Kelly Jasper moves to become Executive Vice President of Corporate Strategy & Innovation. Other promotions include Caitlin Connor to Senior Project Director; Sian Douglas to Project Director; Robin Franke to Senior Research Director; Amy Harr to Vice President of Insights & Analytics; and Reene Kalola to Research Director.
Announcing that we have hired market research veteran Miriam Konz as Executive Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Innovation. In this role, she will head up an additional client services team to support expansion of the company and project capacity.
As the no and low alcohol beverage sector continues to expand, wine offerings in this category are a bit more complex. Our executive vice president Shira Horn writes about how wine has been impacted by a rise in consumer interest in no-low alcoholic beverages in her latest piece for Beverage Daily, Understanding the No-Low Wine Category.
We just released a listicle tip sheet “Top Five Packaging Design Adjustments to Consider for the Online Shopper” to share advice for rebranding and/or changing the visual identity of packaging to help bolster success in the ever-growing online shopping environment. Since the pandemic began, we have seen growth in online shopping and e-commerce. We have also seen the importance first-hand of helping brands—through effective market research approaches—adjust products to fit this environment.
25 January 2022 - Blue Bell, PA - AMC Global, an international custom market research firm specializing in launch strategies and brand tracking, has expanded its team with the addition of Alecia DiVita, Diane Gaede and Drevin Shafer. DiVita joins in the role of Senior Project Director, Gaede as a Research Director, and Shafer as a Project Director. The new team members will be focused on designing and managing qualitative and quantitative research projects from start to finish for AMC Global’s consumer packaged goods and consumer healthcare industry clients.
Our executive vice president Shira Horn recently weighed in on the latest trends surrounding non-alcoholic and low alcohol beers in an article for Beverage Daily, No and Low Alcohol Beer is Here to Stay. In it, she covers marketplace trends and consumer sentiment that is driving an increased demand for no-low beer options, and how brands and distributors can stay a step ahead in this burgeoning space.
We were thrilled to present at the recent Path to Purchase LIVE: The Digital Experience, an interactive education event that included a diverse program showcasing 2021 success stories and unveiling timely consumer behavior research. Shira Horn (who presented on her birthday!) introduced the rising popularity of the low-no alcohol beverage space. To keep up, brands must understand this emerging segment of adult beverage consumers. Identifying, developing and launching the right products and services is a critical component of organizational growth, as well as consistent market success in this flourishing beverage space.
The latest wave of our ongoing consumer behavior study with OpinionRoute was conducted to reveal predictions for shopping behavior in the coming year. Results show that consumers are acutely aware of a current increase of prices and a decline in product availability, and are expecting and preparing for continued price increases, product shortages and supply chain issues in 2022.
On Thursday, November 4, our Executive Vice President of Corporate Strategy & Innovation, Shira Horn, will be presenting at Path to Purchase Live on “Opportunity Awaits: Finding the White Space for No-Low Alcohol Beverages.” Path to Purchase LIVE: The Digital Experience is an all-new, highly-interactive education event showcasing success stories and unveiling timely consumer behavior research—including a brand-new Adult Beverage Marketing Forum, where Shira will be presenting. Register for the event to discover new strategies and tools to enact and drive sales after a period of unprecedented changes in how consumers discover, consider and make purchase decisions.
The latest wave of the ongoing study by AMC Global (an international custom market research firm specializing in launch strategies and brand tracking) and OpinionRoute (a leader in insights process management) was released today. This current study uncovered new insights and trend data from Americans about purchasing gifts and planning gatherings during the 2021 holidays.
Once upon a time, on a business trip (remember those?), my client was lamenting about the number of sales calls he receives on a daily basis. When I said I understood, he seemed surprised. “Wait, but who is trying to sell things to YOU?” he asked. My reaction to this was two-fold.
AMC Global has hired Libby Brown as a senior research manager and she will be collaborating with internal teams and with clients on custom research studies. The company has also hired Sian Douglas as an associate project director to help guide primary data collection and analysis.
25 August 2021 - Blue Bell, PA - AMC Global, an international custom market research firm specializing in launch strategies and brand tracking, has released a new white paper “To Drink...or To Drink Differently?” today. The paper was created to explore findings of the company’s ongoing consumer research study—which recently showed that two in five adults are interested in low alcohol and no alcohol (no-low) beer, wine and spirits.
The piece shares how the data shows choice and awareness is growing among consumers for alternative beverages like non-alcoholic, low-alcoholic and functional benefit wellness beverages. The paper explores the no-low beer category, no-low spirits and mocktails, no-low wine, and functional beverages like kombucha and CBD-infused beverages—as well as consumer packaging preferences
Our Vice President of Strategy and Insights, Dacey Mayhoff, recently wrote for Brand Experience Magazine titled "Consumers Call on Brands to Find Alternatives to Plastic Packaging." We recently conducted a study on plastics and packaging for our ongoing consumer research study, and Dacey was able to dig deep into the research and consumer trends to share with BXP readers.
Market research firm adds experienced leader Lea Ben-Akiva to expand current business and support the company’s continued growth
The latest wave of our ongoing consumer opinion study, conducted in partnership with OpinionRoute, was released today. We looked at Americans' growing interest in Low-No Alcohol beers, spirits, wines and “mocktails.” The study explored what features Low-No Alcohol consumers are looking for in these beverages, with properties like ready to drink (RTD), low calorie and all-natural topping the list. Preferred functional ingredients include added vitamins, anti-oxidants and zero sugar. The research also collected preference on packaging in this beverage category, with most preferring single-serve glass bottles for their Low-No Alcohol beverage choices.
Impacts on individual health have varied widely throughout the pandemic, with some developing healthful habits while others (a majority according to the APA) experienced undesirable side effects, such as weight gain. A big part of these changes, both positive and negative, have to do with nutrition and the way food consumption has changed over the past few months.
This week, the 30th wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute was released—this month we looked at diet and food choices among Americans. Many study participants who reported that they are following a diet plan started it in the past year, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Popular diet plans include low carbohydrate and intermittent fasting. The study also looked at food choices, with Americans reporting that they are looking for foods that are high protein, low sodium, high in vitamins and minerals, and foods not bioengineered and/or labeled as non-GMO. Top reasons given for various preferred food choices are better for you, easy to make and nutritionally complete.
People are turning to online shopping, and our ongoing study indicates that this behavior is here to stay for many verticals. We cover these findings in our latest article for the American Marketing Association, where we shared reasons “Why Your Brand Needs to Care About Shopper Insights.”
In the 29th wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute, we looked at how new masking guidelines set by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) here in the United States will affect consumer shopping behavior. Even though guidelines state that people fully vaccinated against the COVID-19 virus are no longer required to wear a mask, many people—vaccinated or not—will still choose to wear a mask in public. Study respondents reported they are more likely to frequent an establishment that continues to require masks for all.
This week in the 28th wave of our ongoing AMC Global study with OpinionRoute, we asked Americans about the post-pandemic world and had them tell us what pandemic-related trends in different categories they might want to continue. Some areas of continuation respondents would like to see include new ways of dining, such as increased outdoor seating and food delivery, and healthcare changes like video chat appointments. People also cited a preference to continue more “shopping local” behaviors, shopping online, and making less grocery trips. In terms of lifestyle changes, the study shows Americans would like to continue the comfortable clothing choices made during the pandemic, and would also like to continue spending more time with their families.
This article by Ken Roshkoff, AMC Global's CEO, originally appeared in the American Marketing Association's March 2021 issue of Marketing News
In the 27th wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute, respondents say they are trying to reduce their consumption of plastics—mostly by using their own bags when shopping and limiting single use plastic bottle purchases. They are looking for alternatives to plastics that are recyclable, reasonably priced and reusable. And there is an expectation that brands and packaging companies should share the expense of providing alternatives to plastic packaging.
The 26th wave of the ongoing study by AMC Global (an international custom market research firm specializing in launch strategies and brand tracking) and OpinionRoute (a leader in insights process management) was released today. Study respondents reported that they consider the protection and/or safety features offered by product packaging when shopping—and many are willing to pay more for such packaging features. The primary concern of packages without these additional added safety features is potential product contamination. Also, most shoppers find sustainable/environmentally friendly packaging to be important in product purchase decisions.
The latest wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute was released today. Study respondents relayed changing behaviors and habits that have happened during the COVID-19 pandemic, indicating that the lack of out-of-home dining has resulted in more homemade meals (from scratch) followed by desserts and fresh produce (over canned/frozen). Also, most respondents consider themselves more careful in their behavior and concerns about the virus than people they know.
Spending 35 years at one company is an achievement we don’t see very often anymore, but Michelle Brenner (Mic) has been with AMC Global for more than three and a half decades. She started with the company in 1985 back when we were called Attitude Measurement Corporation, founded in 1979. She works as the Data Group Manager and has certainly seen our world of market research and data analytics change throughout the years.
The latest wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute was released today. Study respondents predicted behaviors for 2021, indicating increases in supporting small and local businesses in the coming year, plans to eat healthier, and increasing meals prepared at home. Areas with less predicted activity include bigger ticket items, such as shopping for entertainment items and furniture.
With the pandemic continuing to rage across the country, it appears that the extreme rise in online shopping behaviors will continue. Many states have issued renewed mandates encouraging people to stay at home, and put strict capacity limits on retail stores to minimize person-to-person interactions.
After a rollercoaster year with totally unexpected twists and turns, we here at AMC Global took a minute to look back and find some silver linings. There is no doubt that COVID-19 has changed our lives in 2020, and will continue to impact the way we live and work in years to come. But, with the disruptive, shocking, and often frustrating events of this year, also came some unexpected positive things we can appreciate and enjoy.
In the 23rd wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute, our consumer behavior research showed that most Americans have not seen a movie in person at a movie theater for quite some time, and it is likely to be months before they attend again. Respondents report concern about COVID-19 risk as the top reason for staying away, as well as local theaters being closed.
The 22nd wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute was released today. This wave of our consumer behavior research showed that while holiday spending remains similar to last year, many people will shift their shopping tactics away from brick and mortar stores. Black Friday will see significant online shopping, with many planning to get their holiday shopping done earlier in 2020.
We’ve been hearing a lot about all of the doom and gloom on the business and economic front that has come as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, but there are also ways to discover gratitude in the face of current events. I am grateful that AMC Global was able to come up with a few strategies, coupled with a bit of luck, that have helped us succeed in this precarious environment. I wanted to share a few of the steps with others, to spark fresh ideas and hope for those who are feeling the burden of the crisis in their workplace or company.
The 21st wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute was released today. This current wave looked specifically at consumers’ projected Thanksgiving behavior in the United States compared to last year. During the COVID-19 pandemic, most study participants say they will be staying home for Thanksgiving, and any gatherings will include fewer people than last year. In terms of food and beverage consumption and purchasing, there is likely to be a slight dip in portions prepared and served.
And these highly recognizable brands that we see changing identities either have imagery or names that could be considered racially divisive, insensitive, or promoting inequality in some way. These moves are not just knee-jerk reactions. Brands know that consumers are looking for them to take a stand, and “walk the walk” when it comes to social issues. In fact, our research shows that people are watching brands closely right now, so being silent is not an option.
The twentieth wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute looked at consumers’ holiday behavior, particularly in light of their projected food, beverage and alcohol purchasing plans. Study participants reported overall holiday gatherings and entertainment activities are likely to be down from 2019. Due to a decrease in holiday plans, consumers predict purchases in the food and beverage category will decrease in 2020 as well.
Following up on our August back to school study, we asked parents with children entering K-12th grade this year about their current concerns and feelings about school, how school is being taught and their food shopping behavior. This is the latest wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute designed to help clients and industry leaders navigate quickly changing consumer behavior during the pandemic.
The eighteenth wave of our study with OpinionRoute was released today. The research focused on Americans’ anticipated behaviors regarding the upcoming Halloween holiday. Consumers predict that in-person activities, such as handing out candy and trick-or-treating, will be down this year. For those planning to hand out candy, most will do so at their door, utilizing many protective measures believed to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. And while consumers report that purchasing is also down, decorating both inside and outside the home remains at levels similar to 2019.
Ongoing AMC Global research looks at American attitudes toward air travel, car ride services and hotel stays
In this seventeenth wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute, we focused on Americans’ travel behaviors during the pandemic—and predicted travel plans for the remainder of 2020. Drastic drops in travel were uncovered in the study, particularly for air travel and hotels/motels, with some potential recovery predicted for the fourth quarter of 2020. Travel concerns cited by respondents include the cleanliness of hotel/motel rooms and the idea of being in confined spaces of planes and cars.
You can see a full representation of the travel behavior data here or click on the callout below.
We are growing! We've added six experienced insights professionals to our team to serve our clients with advanced research methodologies and approaches: Caitlin Connor, Robin Franke, Doug Galante, Reene Kalola, Mariah Kern, and Nichole Smith. They bring skills to further strengthen AMC’s cross-functional team of market research experts.
At the beginning of the year, we saw the first deadline for compliance with the FDA’s new nutrition labeling regulations come and go. Just a few weeks later, our lives and businesses were turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic. As food and beverage manufacturers navigate a consumer audience that has changed its attitudes and behaviors completely, they must also address changing the Nutrition Facts on their labels. As if there isn’t enough going on, label changes like those required under the current regulations can have wider-reaching implications for some brands.
Vaccine development for COVID-19 has been closely followed news since the pandemic began, with many seeing successful development as a "vital tool" to stopping this global health crisis. In this sixteenth wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute, we focused on Americans’ attitudes about usage of an FDA-approved coronavirus vaccine. While most respondents say they would agree to be vaccinated if a vaccine is approved this year, only some would want to receive the vaccine as soon as it is available, many would wait up to six months or more. For those who would not agree to be vaccinated, barriers included perceptions that there may not have been enough testing and concerns about safety.
With back to school looming—or not looming as the case may be—this week we decided to ask parents with children entering K-12th grade this year about their predicted shopping behavior and their concerns. This is the latest wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute designed to help clients and industry leaders navigate quickly changing consumer behavior during the pandemic.
As we continue to explore consumer behavior during COVID-19 in collaboration with OpinionRoute, we decided to look at summer activities in the United States during the pandemic. The research showed that summer get-togethers in the are quite different in 2020, with virtual and socially distanced gatherings high on the list of activities. More than half of the respondents report restaurant outings, mostly indoors. And, while most report staying in touch with close family, the pandemic is negatively impacting the ability to connect with friends and extended family over the summer.
The latest wave of our ongoing study with OpinionRoute shows many Americans have purchased outside of their typical brands recently—with newly experienced food brands likely to see the most continued purchases in the future. The study also looked at various behaviors during the pandemic and, as noted in previous findings, consumers expect to continue the trend of eating home cooked meals and eating healthier. You can see a full representation of the data here or click on the callout below.
Recently, Seeking Alpha, a large online community focusing on investing, published an article (How The COVID-19 Crisis Could Provide Long-Term Tailwinds) about grocery and e-commerce shopping using Kroger as a case study and the article featured AMC Global’s recent studies on consumer behavior regarding eating and shopping habits during the pandemic.
The latest research wave with our partner, OpinionRoute, shows that Americans are still delaying routine medical, dental and health screening visits. They are also handling prescriptions mostly via phone calls, and are reporting increased usage of vitamins and supplements during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can see a full representation of the data here or click on the callout below.
The latest research wave with our partner, OpinionRoute, shows that consumers still want to hear about companies’ COVID-19 practices and how they are protecting customers and employees, with a serious and informative tone. You can see a full representation of the data here or click on the callout below.
As the United States begins phased reopening state by state, our research with OpinionRoute this week explored consumer thoughts on a second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, personal “quarantine bubbles”, and feelings about reopening states, businesses, and public spaces. You can see a full representation of the data here or click on the callout below.
The eighth wave of the ongoing weekly study by AMC Global and OpinionRoute was released today. The study findings are designed to help clients and industry leaders navigate quickly changing consumer behavior during the crisis.
The eighth wave of the ongoing weekly study by AMC Global and OpinionRoute was released today. The study findings are designed to help clients and industry leaders navigate quickly changing consumer behavior during the crisis.
The seventh wave of AMC Global's ongoing weekly study with OpinionRoute was released today. This week’s research focused on consumer snacking behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic. Questions about snacking included changes in: frequency of snacking, types of snacks, and times of day for snacking as well as reasons behind current snacking. Check out the full graphic of the data by clicking the callout below.
The second part of the sixth wave of our ongoing weekly study by AMC Global and OpinionRoute was released today. This week’s research focused on consumer drivers of alcohol consumption and shifts in choices during COVID-19. (We also looked at projected timing for consumers to frequent various venues after restrictions are lifted, see more here). To find out more about alcohol, we asked consumers how has frequency of drinking alcoholic beverages changed, if at all, during the COVID-19 pandemic. We also asked them what factors they take into consideration when choosing which alcoholic beverages to drink right now.
Check out the full graphic of the data by clicking the callout below.
The first part of the sixth wave of our ongoing weekly study by AMC Global and OpinionRoute was released today. This week’s research focused projected timing for consumers to frequent various venues after COVID-19, once these venues are open and available. (We also looked at alcohol choice and consumption, see more here). We found that consumers will go to businesses in phases. Hair salons and barber shops will be among the first to see their customer base return, whereas consumers are going to wait longer before returning to crowded activities, where social distancing is nearly impossible to uphold such as going to concerts and sporting events.
A case study of AMC Global's work was recently published in Quirk's Marketing Research Review focusing on our work with our client partner, , Drinkworks (a joint venture between Anheuser-Busch InBev & Keurig) who launched their new Drinkworks Home Bar by Keurig® The article explores how insights were gathered from actual purchasers of the new product, using our ResponseCash® PFU™ (Purchaser Follow-Up) methodology. Through the PFU, using both quant and qual approaches, understanding was gained regarding the user, the shopper and the market as a whole.
The fifth wave of our ongoing weekly study by AMC Global and OpinionRoute was released today. This week’s research focused on environmental impact during the COVID-19 pandemic and changes in consumer behavior and perceptions. The positive environmental impact of stay-at-home orders is being recognized by consumers and awareness of personal impact on climate change is increasing.
Check out the full graphic of the data by clicking the callout below.
The fourth wave of the weekly COVID-19 consumer behavior study by AMC Global (an international custom market research firm specializing in launch strategies and brand tracking) and OpinionRoute (a leader in insights process management) was released today. This week’s research focused on product and brand availability, and the impact on purchasing behavior including private label’s role in choice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results show that product availability issues are affecting consumer purchasing patterns, resulting in both lost sales as well as brand and product replacements.
Check out the full graphic of the data.
We know both from our own human experience and some initial research that we’ve conducted that giving back and contributing to the greater good is more important than ever during this global crisis. What better place to turn for ideas than to our awesome team members at AMC Global? We did a quick poll of our employees and found that they’re giving back in a wide variety of ways. Here are just a few.
