Nielsen retail industry experts Jonathan Banks, Todd Hale, Tom Pirovano, James Russo, and Jean-Jacques Vandenheede review the key trends that defined the U.S. retail sector in 2008 – and offer their predictions for the new year.
2008: Staying In Is The New Going Out
Americans are spending more time in front of their computers and televisions. The reach and frequency of TV, Internet, and time shifted TV use increased notably in 2008, as consumers on tight budgets opted to save money by staying home. 
2008: Economizing Strategies Go Digital
In 2008, 20% of consumer discussions online referenced strategies for managing grocery budgets.  …

On Wednesday, The Chicago Tribune published an Associated Press column linking the returning popularity of Spam to rising food costs. The story noted that Spam sales were up 10.6% in the 12-week period ending May 3, compared to last year, according to data from Nielsen. An earlier AP story , which also cited Nielsen data, first spotted Spam’s resurgence. That story noted that consumers are turning to lunch meats and other lower-cost foods to extend their already stretched food budgets.
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