NielsenIQ (NIQ), the world’s leading global consumer intelligence company, has released their much-anticipated Mid-Year Consumer Outlook: Guide to 2025 report, identifying macro catalysts across industries. 

The forward-looking study found 40% of consumers globally would accept a product recommendation from their AI assistant, and 40% would leverage AI to automate and speed up their everyday shopping decisions, making it essential for companies to assess which AI advancements are going to appeal to consumers and provide options to support older consumers. 

Meanwhile, the social commerce revolution has led to the evolution of omni, with an 11.6% increase in global online sales performance and the rise of gamification, with 36% of consumers saying they would spend more on a purchase because of an in-app experience. 

Comparative Australian data reveals:

• Readiness for AI: 30% of Australian consumers are likely to accept a product recommendation from their AI assistant, and 30% would leverage AI to automate and speed up their everyday shopping decisions.

• Omnichannel evolution: Some 34% of Australian consumers say they are likely to spend more on a purchase because of an in-app challenge, point system or reward experience.

“There is increasing demand for AI-driven insights based on large quantities of granular data that only NIQ can deliver,” said Tracey Massey, COO of NIQ.

“Having your finger on the pulse of current and expected consumer behavior that is benchmarked globally is now table stakes to establish and maintain any competitive advantage.” she said.

With the global economy facing ongoing and unprecedented challenges, understanding consumer behavior has become mission-critical for businesses seeking to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.

NIQ’s Mid-Year Consumer Outlook: Guide to 2025 offers a comprehensive analysis of the impact of economic events and trends on consumer confidence, changes in consumer attitudes, and important insights into the factors influencing purchasing decisions. 

The report also explores regional variances, providing in-depth analysis of the unique dynamics of Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Latin America.