Given the recent economic slowdown in developed markets, the ‘value-conscious’ shopper is more visible across store aisles than every before. No doubt, this trend will continue even as economies stagger out of the recession and rehabilitate. This environment will see a fair share of shoppers retain their ‘value mindset’ with an increased preference to shop at stores that have everyday low prices (EDLP) and exhibit a tendency to be uncharacteristically frugal. Retailers too will adjust to this environment by exploring newer formats like shop within shops and smaller formats that cater to this shopper.

Findings from a 2010 Nielsen global online survey of more than 27,000 respondents across 53 countries show that the private label phenomenon is here to stay. In fact, while more than half of online consumers surveyed said they purchased more private label brands during the economic downturn, fully 91 percent said they will continue to do so when the economy improves. Private label brands are in a position to compete on value and quality—key attributes that today's consumers seek. The opportunity for retailers is to use private label to differentiate themselves and lead the way with innovation to help build and sustain the image of the entire franchise.