Market research firm NPD Group has found that U.S. consumers' intent to buy was high in protein and fragrance categories in 2014 and "smart manufacturers and retailers are responding quickly," NPD added.
According to NPD’s research, consumers have grown "positively obsessed" with protein, which is driving diet trends (Paleo), product extensions (Cheerios Protein) and entirely new categories (high-end jerky). Most interestingly to food manufacturers and retailers is that nearly half of consumers report they are buying protein-enriched foods, and are willing to pay a premium for them.
As far as fragrance is concerned, NPD reiterated its earlier findings that nine out of every 10 American women now use a scented personal product. The majority of women who use fine fragrances now also use a scented body product. For men’s fragrance, eight out of 10 men now report using a scented body product. Furthermore, almost 80% of men who buy fragrances do so ahead of time, looking to avoid running out of their preferred scents. Specifically, Gen Y guys are driving much of the activity in fragrances, according to NPD.
