2026 Consumer Trends: What's Changing (And What It Means For Your Business
- Market & Me
- Jan 8
- 2 min read
You're running a business and trying to nail your own January and 2026 intentions. Thinking about global trend reports and consumer behaviours probably isn't top of your to-do list.
But you do need to know what's changing, what your customers are thinking and where behaviour is shifting.
So we've done it for you.
Major research reviewed and broken down for what actually impacts independent businesses in the UK.
And there's a pattern.
The Data Shows a Clear Shift
69% of social media users think algorithmic recommendations are less interesting than those from friends (Mintel).
67% of UK users think filters create body insecurities (Mintel).
47% of consumers say locally owned businesses are important to their purchase decision (McKinsey).
What does this tell us?
People are rejecting optimised perfection. They want real, human, authentic.
Here's What's Happening
On authenticity: The polished aesthetic isn't connecting anymore. Behind-the-scenes, messy, real - that's what works.
On value: 70% of people earning over £100k choose their shop based on private labels (Capgemini). Not because they can't afford more. Because it feels smarter.
Value doesn't mean cheap anymore. It means worth it.
On experience: 86% say experiences are more valuable than material gifts (Hilton). People are redirecting spend from products to stories.
On health: One in 20 adults using weight-loss medications - up from 6% to 9% in one year (Euromonitor). This is reshaping hospitality and food retail in real time.
What This Means
These patterns are already showing up.
And the businesses doing well aren't chasing all of them. They're picking what matters for their customers and acting on it.
Read our Full 2026 Consumer Trends Report
7 major trends to prepare for + what it means for your business.
Keen to learn more about the Consumer Trends to expect in 2026, and hear a few more important customer behaviour shifts? We've pulled the headlines into one easy to digest report.
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