High income shoppers are finally tightening their belts in 2026, signaling an economy where everyone feels the squeeze. Experts say the downturn may linger, but consumers still splurge selectively – rewarding brands that double down on quality.
Heineken’s recent layoffs underscore a broader shake-up in beverage manufacturing as automation rises and beer volumes fall. Brewers are pushing for higher margin innovation and tighter brand portfolios to stabilize a shrinking category.
Restaurant chains winning the mobile app race are doing it by reclaiming margins from third‑party platforms and turning digital ordering into habit, not hassle. The leaders pair frictionless UX with exclusivity, personalization, and first‑party data.
Baby Boomers remain the food industry’s quiet powerhouse, controlling unmatched wealth and displaying stronger loyalty than younger cohorts. Experts note that brands that overlook older adults’ appetite for quality and hybrid convenience risk leaving serious money on the table.
