SPAR Shopper Survey: Consumers Focused on Product Availability, Tariffs and Tech
MWN-AI** Summary
A recent SPAR Group, Inc. consumer survey sheds light on evolving shopping priorities, revealing that product availability is paramount for 74% of respondents when choosing to shop in-store. Simultaneously, 73% of shoppers view out-of-stocks as a significant barrier, emphasizing the critical importance of retailers keeping shelves stocked. Mike Matacunas, President and CEO of SPAR Group, highlighted the ongoing challenge of inventory management, stating that current data often reflects past performance rather than providing actionable insights.
The survey also underscores the growing interest in technology, although there is notable hesitance from consumers. Notably, 71% of shoppers expressed discomfort with the concept of robots in stores, with younger demographics being more receptive than older individuals. Matacunas pointed to advancements in digital shelf monitoring, such as using moving field cameras to improve inventory data without disrupting the shopping experience.
Economic concerns, particularly regarding tariffs, are shaping consumer behavior. Nearly half of shoppers expressed anxiety over potential grocery price increases, leading many to plan for reduced spending or brand switching. This financial strain compounds existing frustrations related to product availability.
Retailer rankings from the survey reveal Walmart's continued dominance in in-store experience, especially among lower-income households, while Target and Costco cater to different consumer segments. The findings also indicate that a substantial majority of shoppers prefer in-store grocery purchases, valuing the sensory aspects of shopping, including the ability to try products and discover new items.
Overall, the SPAR survey illustrates the necessity for retailers to enhance inventory management while embracing technology and understanding consumer concerns to maintain competitiveness in a rapidly changing retail landscape.
MWN-AI** Analysis
The recent SPAR Shopper Survey underscores significant shifts in consumer preferences and behaviors, which retailers must heed to improve their market position. With 74% of respondents citing product availability as their top priority and 73% identifying out-of-stocks as a critical barrier, the imperative is clear: retailers must enhance inventory management to prevent lost sales and consumer disappointment.
Emphasizing a proactive approach, retailers should integrate advanced technologies, such as digital shelf monitoring and on-shelf cameras, to attain real-time inventory insights. While there is a reluctance among consumers regarding innovations like roaming robots, successful deployment of non-intrusive technologies could enhance the shopping experience without causing discomfort. Retailers who embrace a thoughtful approach to technological integration will have a competitive edge.
With half of the shoppers expressing concerns over tariffs affecting grocery prices, retailers should be prepared for a shift in consumer spending patterns. Many consumers are likely to look for coupons, opt for sales, or even switch brands to minimize costs. As younger shoppers, particularly those aged 18-39, demonstrate heightened sensitivity to price increases, tailoring marketing strategies to engage this demographic through promotions and loyalty programs will be essential.
The data indicates a robust preference for in-store shopping, suggesting that brick-and-mortar retailers still hold significant value. Retailers must capitalize on this trend by addressing pain points such as crowding and staffing issues, as boosting positive in-store experiences will foster loyalty and repeat business.
Ultimately, the SPAR Shopper Survey serves as a clarion call for retailers to prioritize inventory management and innovation while also considering economic factors that affect consumer behavior. Those who can adapt to these evolving dynamics will secure a stronger foothold in the competitive retail landscape.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
A new consumer study conducted by SPAR Group , Inc. reveals that product availability is the single most important factor for shoppers when choosing to shop in-store, with 74% of respondents citing it as their top priority. At the same time, 73% of shoppers identify out-of-stocks as a leading barrier to the in-store experience, underscoring the critical need for retailers to maintain well-stocked shelves.
“The first rule of retail is that empty is always wrong. After decades of investment, inventory in-stock, plan-o-gram compliance and optimal replenishment remains elusive. Retailers and brands pay for data based on point-of-sale transactions as a proxy to monitoring inventory velocity, but this information is too late to make a difference. It’s like driving your car looking in the rear-view mirror,” said Mike Matacunas, President and CEO of SPAR Group.
“This shopper study underscores the impact of distorted inventory – disappointed consumers, lost sales, lower margins. I am encouraged by the trend towards digital shelf innovation, but cautious based on the consumer’s plans to navigate tariffs. We need to be bolder as an industry and embrace innovation. Great merchants test and learn.”
Technology and Innovation
The 2025 SPAR Consumer Survey highlights a growing interest in technology that enhances the in-store experience but also reveals consumer hesitancy toward certain innovations. 71% of shoppers are uncomfortable or unsure with the idea of roaming robots in stores, with women expressing more discomfort than men. Younger shoppers (ages 18-54) are more open to roaming robots than older demographics.
“Digital shelf monitoring is a growing market. Retailers are testing roving robots, stationery cameras and on-shelf moving field cameras. These promise to capture inventory information to improve plan-o-gram compliance, in-stock integrity and velocity data. As ex-retailers, we have sorted through the competitive solutions as a retailer and the winner is obvious. Consumers don’t want technology to interfere with the shopping experience. Retailers don’t want cameras on sticks every few feet. Moving field gondola-based cameras are the ‘best mousetrap’ for retailers,” continued Matacunas.
Economic Concerns and Shopper Behavior
Nearly half of shoppers are very concerned about tariffs, particularly regarding grocery prices. Many expect to seek out more coupons or sales, buy less overall or switch brands. Younger shoppers (ages 18–39) are especially likely to anticipate significant increases in expenses and express higher levels of concern.
“Consumers intend on reducing spend or switching brands as tariffs continue to roll out. The impact of tariffs further exacerbates consumer’s frustration with inventory availability. Retailers and brands need to be more proactive investing in process and technology to improve availability and remain competitive,” said Matacunas.
Retailer Rankings
Walmart continues to lead in in-store experience and app helpfulness, especially among lower-income households. Target remains a distant second, while higher-income shoppers ($90K+) show a preference for Costco.
In-Store Shopping, Mobile Apps Remain Essential
Four of five shoppers prefer to purchase groceries in-store, driven by the ability to try products, discover new items and plan meals. Loyalty rewards and competitive prices are now equally valued as top benefits of retailer apps. Mobile apps are especially helpful for households earning $100K–$200K, while contactless checkout and buy-online-pickup-in-store options appeal to those in the $40K–$50K range.
Other Key Survey Findings
- Positive In-Store Drivers : Speedy checkout, in-store promotions, self-checkout options and coupons are top contributors to a positive experience.
- Challenges : Crowds and lack of staff remain significant pain points for shoppers.
- Shopping Intentions : 61% of respondents expect to shop more in stores over the next six months.
- Technology Preferences: Half of shoppers say downloadable coupons and self-checkout encourage them to shop in-store.
- Data Sharing : Most shoppers are willing to share data with retailers, but about one in four now share only specific data for specific reasons, a notable increase from last year.
SPAR Group’s Commitment
SPAR Group continues to support retailers and brands with solutions that address the evolving needs of today’s shoppers. By leveraging advanced image capture, on-shelf availability technology and strategic partnerships, SPAR helps ensure products are available, promotions are effective and the in-store experience is seamless.
“As the retail landscape evolves, our mission remains the same: to help retailers and brands keep their customers happy, engaged and coming back,” said Matacunas. “We’re proud to be at the forefront of innovation, delivering the insights and services that drive real results for our partners and the shoppers they serve. If you want to learn more about our unique approach, please don’t hesitate to reach out.”
Note to Editors: The complete results of the 2025 SPAR Consumer Survey are available HERE , or contact ron@rampr.com .
Methodology
During June 2025, SPAR Group fielded a survey through a third-party research firm with more than 1,000 consumers between the ages of 18 and 64. Respondents were screened to be the primary or secondary shopper in their households.
About SPAR Group, Inc.
SPAR Group is an innovative services company offering comprehensive merchandising, marketing and distribution solutions to retailers and brands. We provide the resources and analytics that improve brand experiences and transform retail spaces. We offer a unique combination of scale and flexibility with a passion for client results that separates us from the competition. For more information, please visit the SPAR Group’s website at http://www.sparinc.com .
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250731823917/en/
Media Contact
Ronald Margulis
RAM Communications
908-272-3930
ron@rampr.com
FAQ**
How does SPAR Group Inc. SGRP plan to leverage the findings from the latest consumer survey to enhance in-store product availability and address the critical needs highlighted by shoppers?
In what ways is SPAR Group Inc. SGRP investing in technology innovations to improve inventory management and prevent out-of-stocks, as indicated by the survey?
Given the consumer hesitance toward some technological innovations like roaming robots, how is SPAR Group Inc. SGRP adapting its strategies to align with shopper preferences while introducing new solutions?
What specific actions is SPAR Group Inc. SGRP taking to assist retailers in managing the anticipated impacts of tariffs on consumer behavior and inventory availability, as revealed in the survey?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about SPAR Group Inc. (NASDAQ: SGRP).
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