Higher prices aren’t stopping Americans from spending—they’re changing what makes it into the shopping cart.
1. Cooking at Home More Often
KPMG found 67% of consumers are eating at home more often than dining out, and among those cooking more, 76% said budget constraints were the main reason.
2. Cutting Back on Snacks
Grocery shoppers are getting selective. A 2026 RELEX survey found 61% of consumers changed how much food they buy because of higher prices, with 46% cutting back on snacks and junk food.
3. Buying Less Beef
Beef is another place where shoppers are making a trade-off. The same RELEX survey found 39% had reduced their beef purchases, while fresh groceries remained a priority: 68% said fresh food was still worth paying more for.
4. Shopping for Smaller Baskets
Americans are still shopping, but they’re being more deliberate. ICSC’s September 2026 consumer survey found 77% reported higher monthly spending, yet higher prices and new expenses—not higher incomes—were the main reasons.
5. Trading Restaurants for Fast Food
When people do eat out, they’re becoming more value-conscious. KPMG found 25% are visiting quick-service or fast-food restaurants more often, while spending on casual and fine dining is taking a hit.
6. Keeping the Little Treats
Cutting back doesn’t mean eliminating every indulgence. Deloitte expects U.S. holiday retail sales to grow as much as 4.8% in 2026, showing consumers are still willing to spend when a purchase feels worthwhile.
Sources:
- KPMG, Consumer Pulse Survey — Summer 2026 (KPMG)
- RELEX Solutions, State of Supply Chain Consumer Pulse 2026 (RELEX Solutions)
- ICSC, Consumer Economy Report, September 2026 (ICSC)
- Deloitte, 2026 U.S. holiday retail forecast (reuters.com)