Call it inflation, economic uncertainty, tariff woes, but no matter how you phrase it, there is one glaring problem: Prices for just about everything are just too darn high. And every month, it feels like some product (that was already overpriced, mind you) got even pricier. A trip to the grocery store feels like a day at Disneyland. People are used to it, which is not a good thing. So they buy less, go out less, do less, or just go without.
And now, according to a recent MRI-Simmons study, consumers agree that “most things are too expensive.” With all the data and headlines blaming it on the economy, of course, and the prices stubbornly refusing to go down, it starts to feel personal.
Don’t worry: It’s not all doom and gloom
In days past, for many, the thought of presenting a coupon at a high-end jewelry store or a fancy restaurant was a bit unheard of. But now, heck, use ’em if you got ’em.
Back to the darker (and lighter) side of things
Maybe things will never fully return to pre-pandemic times. Yet despite some brand attempts at lowering some prices, costs are still rising, thus, the shift in consumer behavior across nearly all demographics in the United States.
Advertisers that offer genuine deals drive customer loyalty and encourage shoppers to return to the stores. It’s about just listening to what the shoppers are saying:
The time is now: be a coupon hero
The results of these studies shed a big light on what’s going on and how people are feeling. But they also undoubtedly show an excellent opportunity for small and large businesses to capitalize on this crucial moment in history. With consistent advertising done right, using the proper data to target the right groups at the right time with coupons and deals, businesses can overcome their challenges and outshine their competition.
Valpak Clipp has marketing specialists who can help you create and implement a strategy based on best practices. Whether shared direct mail, postcards or combining and boosting your campaign strategy with digital marketing, your local Valpak Clipp rep can help your business decide which channels are the most suitable for your needs to achieve your advertising goals.
Sources: Valpak Clipp 2025 Readership Study; Valpak Clipp 2025 Consumer Dining Survey; Valpak Clipp 2025 Small Business Economic Survey; MRI-Simmons 2025 Q3 Trending Topics Study