The first quarter of 2010 shows a positive trend in nominal value growth rates in most countries, which was driven primarily through volume growth improvement… However, the economic turmoil reached Eastern Europe with a 12-month lag.

Based on the widest possible basket of product categories in Europe, the fourth quarter 2009 showed nominal growth, which has remained stable since the prior quarter, and around 3% for four consecutive quarters.

Todd Hale, Senior Vice President, Consumer & Shopper Insights, Nielsen U.S., Jonathan Banks, Director Retail Insights, Nielsen Europe, James Russo, Vice President of Marketing, Nielsen U.S., Jean-Jacques Vandenheede, Director Retail Insights, Nielsen Europe

CI SUMMARY: A shift from nice-to-have to need-to-have assortment and retailing is a common thread across the U.S. and abroad. An interview with Nielsen’s top industry thought leaders reveals how shopping patterns across the world have been affected by the economic downturn, how consumer packaged goods manufacturers and retailers are coping and what lies ahead for the rest …