Consumer Corner
SURVEY REVEALS 81% OF CONSUMERS NOW COOK MORE THAN HALF OF THEIR MEALS AT HOME
HARRISBURG, Pa. /PRNewswire/ — Since its peak in 2020 and 2021, cooking at home has decreased slightly, but 64% of Americans are continuing to do so to save money and control their budget. After gaining confidence in the kitchen during lockdown, Americans are looking for inspiration to DIY healthier-for-them meals at home – preferably with ingredients from deals in the frozen and refrigerated food aisles. They are also relying more on online grocery shopping and social media for inspiration on how to use those ingredients.
The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA), a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry, released these findings as part of its latest “Eating at Home” industry report. The report is the culmination of a large-scale research study conducted to better understand Americans’ changing grocery-shopping habits.
To gather data, researchers surveyed more than 12,000 U.S. consumers; and to gain in-depth, everyday insights, twenty consumers from across the U.S. welcomed researchers into their homes and to their local grocery stores. Additionally, a large-scale analysis of news and social media content helped researchers identify and understand consumer perspectives surrounding frozen and refrigerated foods over the past 18 months up to mid-August of 2023.
“This is the largest research undertaking from the NFRA on behalf of the frozen and refrigerated food industry, with the results yielding directional insights for food manufacturers on consumer trends,” said NFRA President and CEO Jeff Rumachik.
While the entire report is available to read – including directional insights for those in the industry – some trends from the report are available now for the public.
Health-ier Choices
Americans are prioritizing “healthier-for-me” options, especially as they gain control over what ingredients go into their meals.
- Taste or flavor (66%), quality of the groceries (65%) and healthiness (49%) determine what consumers are putting in their carts.
- Nearly 3 in 5 consumers (59%) say they began cooking at home using precut frozen fruits and vegetables to save on prep time; using frozen main dishes that are easier to prepare, while making their own side dishes; or using frozen fruit in recipes for smoothies or other treats sometime within the past three years.
Convenient and Cost-Effective Options
Convenience doesn’t mean people are just putting frozen dinners in the oven. They’re making some dishes from scratch while using frozen foods and dairy aisle finds to make their home-cooked meals complete. As shoppers continue to explore new tastes and recipes, they’re also taking notice of increased variety within the frozen and dairy aisles – as well as hunting for deals to help their budget.
- 93% of consumers indicate they buy milk or are always looking out for offers on milk when shopping in the dairy aisle. In that same group, more than two-thirds (68%) are always on the lookout for milk alternatives/flavored milk or indicate they purchase milk alternatives/flavored milk occasionally or frequently when shopping in the dairy aisle.
- 45% of consumers rely on air fryers and 43% use slow cookers to cook and prepare food. As of September 2023, there were 9.7 billion views of videos tagged with #airfryer (Media analysis, Atomik Research 2023).
Technology’s Growing Role in the Food We Eat
Technology and social media are having a major influence in shifting how and what Americans eat. Consumers are adopting online grocery shopping and looking to social media for cooking inspiration to make eating at home more convenient or to fill in the gaps when they don’t have the skillset for making a recipe.
- More than half (54%) of consumers are learning about food and cooking through TikTok and YouTube.
- A third of consumers (33%) prefer to shop for groceries online because automated recommended purchases / ‘programmatic reminders’ help ensure that they never forget the ingredients they need for recipes.
For more information about the research and its methodology, to read the full report, or to contact NFRA, visit nfraweb.com/research.
About National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA)
NFRA is a non-profit trade association representing all segments of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. NFRA sponsors national promotions Rediscover Dairy and Frozen, March Frozen Food Month, June Dairy Month and June/July Ice Cream & Novelties; and provides consumer information such as food safety guidelines, meal preparation tips, recipes and sweepstakes opportunities through its Easy Home Meals consumer website and social media properties.
SOURCE National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association
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Automotive
Refining its Adventure Ready Heritage: Introducing the 2025 Toyota 4Runner
Get ready for the ultimate off-road adventure with the all-new 2025 Toyota 4Runner. It combines heritage, capability, and advanced features.
2025 Toyota 4Runner
For over four decades, the Toyota 4Runner has held a special place in the hearts of North American off-road enthusiasts. Its legendary status as a capable and rugged off-roader is undeniable. Now, with the all-new 2025 Toyota 4Runner, Toyota has raised the bar even higher, combining the vehicle’s iconic heritage with bold new looks, advanced technology, premium materials, and enhanced safety features. Let’s dive into the exciting details of this sixth-generation model and discover why it’s set to captivate adventure lovers yet again.
Built for the Toughest Terrains:
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is built on Toyota’s tough TNGA-F global truck platform, which it shares with other iconic models like Tacoma, Land Cruiser, Tundra, and Sequoia. This platform boasts a high-strength boxed, steel-ladder frame, multi-link coil rear, and double-wishbone front suspension, providing unbeatable durability and enhanced ride comfort. With its powerful i-FORCE MAX powertrain, the new 4Runner can tow up to an impressive 6,000 pounds.
Evolving Legacy with a Bold New Look:
The design of the all-new 4Runner was spearheaded by the Michigan-based CALTY design team, who drew inspiration from the vehicle’s rich heritage and its association with the Baja desert racing scene. The result is a dynamic and athletic appearance, paying homage to the first and second generations of 4Runners. Design elements such as the legacy “wrap over” quarter glass and the iconic roll-down rear window have been brought back, adding a touch of nostalgia. Inside the cabin, the emphasis was on creating a functional and sophisticated space, with second-row tumble seats enhancing versatility and maximizing cargo floor usage.
Unleashing the Power:
The 2025 4Runner offers two powerful and efficient powertrain options. The i-FORCE engine, a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder, delivers an impressive 278 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Additionally, the i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, available on select models, combines a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with a 48-hp electric motor, creating a total system output of up to 326 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque – the most powerful powertrain ever offered on a 4Runner.
Unparalleled Off-Road Capability:
The 4Runner has always been synonymous with off-road capability, and the 2025 model takes it to new heights. The introduction of the Stabilizer Bar Disconnect Mechanism enhances suspension articulation, allowing the vehicle to flex while maintaining excellent traction. With up to 32-degree approach and 24-degree departure angles, the 4Runner is prepared to conquer any trail. The available Multi-Terrain Monitor system assists the driver by providing a view of potential hazards displayed on the center screen, further enhancing off-road safety.
An Array of Options:
Toyota expanded the grade offering for the 2025 4Runner to provide customers with more choices than ever before. Nine grades are available, including the new Trailhunter grade, designed specifically for overlanding enthusiasts who seek a turnkey solution for their adventures. The Trailhunter comes equipped with additional off-road enhancements, such as ARB’s Old Man Emu (OME) shocks and a co-designed ARB Roof Rack.
Advanced Technology for a Connected Experience:
The 2025 4Runner features Toyota’s latest technology, including an 8-inch or available 14-inch multimedia touchscreen display compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. The inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as standard ensures that all 4Runner models are equipped with advanced safety features. Additional available features like Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Road Sign Assist provide peace of mind on and off the road.
Setting a Cleaner Path:
The 2025 4Runner embraces Toyota’s commitment to a carbon-neutral future, featuring a hybrid powertrain option. As part of the Beyond Zero Vision, Toyota is expanding its electrified vehicle lineup. The 4Runner, along with other Toyota models, including the Land Cruiser and Tacoma, contributes to the company’s aim of offering customers diverse options to reduce their carbon footprint.
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is a testament to Toyota’s dedication to refining an already iconic and adventure-ready vehicle. With its bold new design, enhanced capability, advanced technology, and commitment to sustainability, the 4Runner continues to be a top choice for those seeking thrilling off-road experiences. Prepare to embark on bigger and bolder adventures with the all-new 2025 Toyota 4Runner.
About Toyota
For over 65 years, Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been an integral part of North American culture, dedicated to promoting sustainable mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands and our extensive network of over 1,800 dealerships.
Toyota has a significant presence in North America, employing over 63,000 people who have played a vital role in designing, engineering, and assembling nearly 47 million cars and trucks. In the near future, Toyota will open its 14th manufacturing plant in North Carolina, which will produce batteries for electric vehicles. As of now, Toyota already offers 27 different options for electrified vehicles, making it the automaker with the most electric vehicles on the road.
For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.
Source: Toyota
https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner/automotive/
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Consumer Corner
2024 Is Shaping Up to Be the Smallest Black Friday Ever: GoDaddy Study
71% of Consumers are Ready to Pay More to Shop at Small Businesses This Holiday Season
TEMPE, Ariz. /PRNewswire/ — Consumers are in a giving mood this year, not just toward their friends and families, but also to small businesses. According to a new GoDaddy survey, 71%* of U.S. shoppers are willing to pay more to support small businesses during Black Friday and this year’s holiday season, with an eye-popping 53%* of them willing to spend up to 10 percent more to do so.
Despite 65%* of survey respondents agreeing that inflation will impact their shopping this holiday season, their desire to shop small is clear. More than 3 in 4 (78%)** people are as or more likely to shop at a small business this Black Friday and throughout the holidays compared to previous years, with Gen Z being the most likely to shop small (85%)** and Millennials following closely behind (83%)**.
Of the reasons to favor small businesses, 30% of respondents cited wanting to support their local economy, while 18% claimed doing so led to better customer service, and 13% preferred unique or handmade products**.
The Stakes Are Big for Small Businesses
GoDaddy surveyed U.S. consumers to help small businesses understand their customers’ shopping priorities during the all-important holiday season. According to the survey results, 40%* of U.S. consumers plan to do most of their holiday shopping in the next four weeks, with almost 1 in 5 (19%)* planning to do the bulk of their shopping on Black Friday alone.
“Black Friday has long been considered peak selling season for large retailers, but GoDaddy’s research makes it crystal clear U.S. shoppers are willing and eager to make this the smallest Black Friday ever,” said GoDaddy Small Business Trends Expert, Amy Jennette. “Despite inflation concerns and rising costs, consumers want to support their local businesses and economies.”
Jennette continued: “To take advantage of this opportunity, small businesses should lean into the ‘shopping small’ experience that consumers value and are willing to pay more for. They can do this by focusing on unique holiday promotions and offers to attract traffic and provide superior customer service along with unique products and experiences they can’t find elsewhere.”
Who Consumers Are Shopping for and How Much They’re Spending
GoDaddy’s survey also shows consumers are embracing the spirit of giving. Nearly one-third (31%) of consumers purchase gifts for six or more people, and 10%* extend their shopping lists to more than 10 people.
For many, the holiday season is a time to show their generosity, with about a fifth of respondents (22%)** typically spending more than $100 per person. Additionally, 32% of shoppers who participated in the survey reported spending between $51 and $100 per person during the holidays. That means over half (54%) of respondents plan to spend more than $50 on gifts per person this holiday season.
Spreading holiday joy isn’t just about giving gifts to others. Two-thirds (67%)** of consumers intend to treat themselves to a holiday indulgence, as well. Gen Z is the most likely to do so, with 83%** planning to buy themselves a special item or experience.
So Many Tools and Resources to Help Small Businesses This Holiday Season
Small businesses looking for guidance on how to maximize their seasonal sales should visit GoDaddy’s Ultimate Guide to Holiday Campaign Planning. Valuable resources include holiday marketing advice by channel, do’s and don’ts for offering seasonal promotions, AI prompts that make it easy to manage and promote a business during the busiest time of year, and much more.
Visit GoDaddy.com to learn more about the solutions GoDaddy offers small businesses, including the AI-powered GoDaddy Airo experience that TechRadar called “a game-changer for small businesses looking to establish their online presence, particularly because of how much time and effort it saves.”
Methodology
The survey data referenced in this news release was collected via two surveys in which U.S. consumers were asked about their holiday shopping habits: one conducted in October 2024 with 1,247 respondents* and one in September 2024 with 1,520 respondents**.
About GoDaddy
GoDaddy (NYSE: GDDY) helps millions of entrepreneurs globally start, grow, and scale their businesses. People come to GoDaddy to name their idea, build a professional website, attract customers, sell their products and services, and accept payments online and in-person. GoDaddy’s easy-to-use tools help microbusiness owners manage everything in one place and its expert guides are available to provide assistance 24/7. To learn more about the company, visit www.GoDaddy.com.
Source: GoDaddy Inc.
Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner/
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Consumer Corner
Ace Hardware Simplifies Holiday Gift Giving with Unbeatable Deals and Quality Picks for Everyone on the List
Explore Gift Ideas from Top Brands Including Milwaukee, YETI, Big Green Egg, and More While Reliving the Magic of the Holidays with a Festive Content Series
OAK BROOK, Ill. /PRNewswire/ — Ace Hardware makes holiday shopping easier than ever with its thoughtfully curated gift guide featuring the best deals of the season, beginning today. From premium tools and outdoor equipment to barbecue essentials from the best brands, Ace delivers service, convenience and value in one seamless shopping experience. Whether shopping for a DIYer, an outdoor adventurer, a grill master, or a gardening enthusiast, customers can discover meaningful gifts and exceptional savings in-store and online.
“Our aim is to remove the hassle and be the convenient, one-stop shop for holiday gift giving,” says Kim Lefko, Chief Marketing Officer at Ace Hardware. “We have high-quality gifts that span from practical to unexpected. Your neighborhood Ace has a gift for everyone on your list, even the hard-to-shop-for people.”
Ace has also recaptured the magic of being a ‘kid at Christmas’ – only now, the once thrilling toy store is a well-stocked hardware store. This holiday season, Ace unveils engaging new content that highlights the joy of discovering those must-have items. From November through December, Ace invites customers to experience the wonder of magical holiday moments, meant to ignite their inner child. To get in the holiday spirit, explore the fun here and check out the gift guide below.
Holiday Gift Guide & Top Deals, November 1 – December 2^
- Gifts for the DIYer:
- Craftsman Versastack Tool Storage – Select items 25% off
- Craftsman Wide Mouth Tool Bag – On sale for $5.99
- Craftsman Versastack 230 Pc. Mechanics Tool Set – On sale for $99.00
- DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 Tool Storage Products – Select items 25% off
- Milwaukee M12 or M18 Power Tools and Batteries – Select items on sale for $99.00
- Stanley Hand Tools & Accessories – Select items on sale for $5.99 each
- Gifts for New Homeowner & Décor:
- Celebrations Classic LED T5 Multicolored 300 ct String Christmas Lights – On sale for $19.99
- DeWalt 20V MAX Drill & Impact Driver Kit – On sale for $129.99 (save $70!)*
- Holiday Bright Lights 7′ Cayce Pine Color-Changing LED Tree – On sale for $169.99
- Living Accents 28″ Gas Fire Pit Table – On sale for $139.99
- Milwaukee Screwdriver Set – On sale for $19.99
- Solo Stove Bonfire 19.5″ Wood Fire Pit – On sale for $279.99**
- Werner 20′ Type II Aluminum Extension Ladder – On sale for $229.99
- Gifts to Impress Your Father-in-Law:
- Big Green Egg 18.25″ Large EGG Package – Buy this, get Big Green Egg EGG Genius WiFi Enabled Interactive Temperature Control for free ($249.99 value)***
- Blackstone Iron Forged 4-burner Outdoor Griddle – On sale for $469.99
- Gozney Arc XL 21″ Outdoor Pizza Oven – On sale for $809.99***
- Loud Mouth Sauces, Seasonings & Rubs – Buy three, get 10% off
- Ooni Koda 16″ Outdoor Pizza Oven – On sale for $479.99**
- Gifts for the Grill Master:
- Blackstone Iron Forged 2-burner Outdoor Griddle – On sale for $249.99
- Traeger Meater Plus Bluetooth Enabled Meat Thermometer – On sale for $79.95**
- Traeger Ironwood 885 Wood Pellet Grill – On sale for $1,299.95***
- Traeger Pro Series 34 Wood Pellet Grill Bronze – On sale for $499.00***
- Weber Genesis SA-E-325 Gas Grill or Weber Genesis SP-S-325 Gas Grill – Buy one of these, get Weber Crafted Grill Grate Kit for free ($49.99 value)
- Gifts for College Students:
- Muk Luks Winter Hat, Socks, Slippers or Sherpa Fleece Throw – On sale for $9.99
- Stanley The Quencher H2.0 Flowstate – $35.00
- YETI Hooper M15 Cooler Bag – $300.00
- Gifts for the Outdoor Adventurer:
- Franklin 2-Player Pickleball Set – 20% off**
- Milwaukee Utility Knives – On sale for $19.99
- Stanley IceFlow 30oz. Tumbler – $35.00
- YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Cooler – $275.00
- Gifts for Garden Enthusiasts:
- Ace Wild Bird Food – Two for $18.00
- Amaryllis Bulb Kit Gift Box – On sale for $8.99
- EGO POWER+ 56V Battery Handheld Blower Kit – On sale for $169.00 (save $30!)*
- Gifts for the Person Who Has Everything:
- Duracell Batteries – Save $1*; for every value-pack purchased, $1 will be donated to local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals
- EGO Mini Bike – $1,999.00
- FOGO Premium Charcoal – Buy one, get Santa’s Bag of Coal Gift Bag for free ($14.95 value)
- Milwaukee Heated Jacket – $229.99
^All deals available only at participating stores, subject to change
*Ace Rewards member exclusive
**Deal from Nov. 20 through Dec. 2 only
***Deal from Nov. 20 through Dec. 24 only
In its commitment to giving back, Ace is also proud to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals with a special initiative. For every Duracell batteries value-pack purchased this holiday season, a portion of the proceeds will go to support local Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.
Holiday Helpful at Ace
In addition to exceptional savings, Ace Rewards members enjoy unique benefits designed to make shopping at Ace even more rewarding and convenient, including same-day and next-day delivery from local stores on qualifying orders.† A new, ongoing benefit for Ace Rewards members now includes free assembly and delivery on snow blowers and push mowers, an addition to the service already available for grills, priced at $399 and up. Becoming a member is easy and free, and membership provides access to exclusive sales events, points on every purchase, and personalized coupons throughout the year. Sign up in-store or online to start enjoying the benefits right away. Visit acehardware.com/ace-rewards to learn more.
All Ace customers can take advantage of in-store pickup of online orders, ready within 15 minutes,‡ making it easier than ever to get the products they need whenever they need them – because every minute counts during the hectic shopping season. For additional information and to explore even more holiday offerings, head to acehardware.com.
†Participation and delivery area vary by store. Same-day delivery is available on in-stock orders placed by noon or on orders placed at least two hours before store closing time, whichever is earlier.
‡Orders must be placed at least 30 minutes before the store closes at participating Ace locations. Orders placed outside business hours will be available the next business morning for pickup. Visit https://www.acehardware.com/ready-in-15 for more details.
About Ace Hardware
Ace Hardware is the largest retailer-owned hardware cooperative in the world with over 5,900 locally owned and operated hardware stores in approximately 60 countries. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Ill., Ace and its subsidiaries operate an expansive network of distribution centers in the U.S. and have distribution capabilities in Ningbo, China; and Cuautitlán Izcalli, Mexico. Since 1924, Ace has been a part of local communities around the world and known as the place with the helpful hardware folks. For more information, visit acehardware.com or newsroom.acehardware.com.
SOURCE Ace Hardware Corporation
Welcome to the Consumer Corner section of STM Daily News, your ultimate destination for savvy shopping and informed decision-making! Dive into a treasure trove of insights and reviews covering everything from the hottest toys that spark joy in your little ones to the latest electronic gadgets that simplify your life. Explore our comprehensive guides on stylish home furnishings, discover smart tips for buying a home or enhancing your living space with creative improvement ideas, and get the lowdown on the best cars through our detailed auto reviews. Whether you’re making a major purchase or simply seeking inspiration, the Consumer Corner is here to empower you every step of the way—unlock the keys to becoming a smarter consumer today!
https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner
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