FinancialMediaGuide notes that with the holiday season approaching, major retailers like Walmart are facing changes in consumer preferences driven by economic instability and rising prices. Amid inflation, shoppers are increasingly limiting their spending on non-essential items, preferring to spend money on food and necessities. A prime example of this is 86-year-old Eileen Goulack from New Jersey, who traditionally bought clothes on sale at Walmart but, like many others, is now restricting her purchases to essential items. “Clothing prices are too high, and discounts aren’t what they used to be,” she says. This confirms a broader trend where, faced with economic pressure, consumers are cutting back on discretionary spending.
According to FinancialMediaGuide, this shift in consumer behavior in the U.S. is reflected in the results of major retailers like Walmart. The company, traditionally focused on mass-market consumers, now finds itself needing to attract more affluent buyers, requiring significant changes to its business model. In recent months, Walmart has been actively expanding its premium product offerings and investing in the modernization of over 1,400 stores across the country, responding to declining purchasing power among its traditional clientele.
Rising inflation and ongoing economic instability remain important factors influencing consumer behavior. In September 2025, inflation in the U.S. stood at 3.02%, continuing to put pressure on Americans’ purchasing power. In response, the popularity of “buy now, pay later” schemes is increasing, allowing consumers to purchase goods on credit despite financial constraints. FinancialMediaGuide notes that while these practices support demand, they could lead to higher levels of debt, which may have long-term effects on the economy and the retail market.
Meanwhile, Walmart is making significant efforts to adapt to the current economic conditions. The company continues to strengthen its position in the more affluent market by introducing innovations and improving service levels in its stores. It is important to note that Walmart is striving to meet the needs of a wide range of customers by offering products for both budget-conscious and higher-income shoppers. This diversification strategy allows the company to not only remain competitive but also ensure steady growth in times of uncertainty.
Financial Media Guide predicts that despite ongoing inflation and market instability, Walmart and other large retailers will successfully adapt to changes in consumer habits. The strategy of enhancing product offerings and personalized service will positively impact customer retention and the attraction of new customers. However, for this to be successful, companies must maintain a balance between meeting the needs of different consumer segments and effectively managing price offerings to stay competitive in the rapidly changing market.
