Concerns about channel conflict once kept brands from selling to direct to consumers, but not anymore. Branded suppliers selling direct is one of the biggest trends in retail and the shift is creating new growth opportunities for consumer goods companies.
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Survey: These social networks most influence purchases
When it comes to buying products, consumers are particular about who and what they trust to get advice.
According to a survey of nearly 14,000 adults conducted in early March by social retail technology provider Collective Bias, Facebook and YouTube are the most persuasive social channels for consumer purchases. About 19% of consumers find Facebook to influence their purchasing decision most, with YouTube coming in second at nearly 18%. YouTube is especially popular with men (23%) compared to women (14%).
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Survey: Online grocery shopping grows in certain directions
Consumers are buying groceries online in increasing numbers, but are following specific trends.
According to a new survey of 12,000 U.S. grocery shoppers conducted by grocery retail consultancy Brick Meets Click and sponsored by SAP hybris, the percentage of U.S. consumers that have purchased groceries online in the past 30 days nearly doubled to 21% in the fourth quarter of 2015 from 11% in 2013. Forty-one percent of consumers have purchased groceries online at some point.

